Natural remedies for children with ADHD: vitamins, calming food diet, behavioral therapy, including special activities
After careful evaluation, an ADHD diagnosis is confirmed in only some children who were previously suspected of having it. So, if you notice signs of hyperactivity in your child, do not rush to seek medical solutions.Many unwanted behavioral reactions in children can be reduced or managed entirely with a well-chosen diet, a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals, and behavioral therapy.
Nutrition
- Remove allergens. If your child’s ADHD is accompanied by allergic reactions, try to identify and remove food allergens. Improved behavioral reactions are often seen when allergic responses decrease. If your child has a confirmed food intolerance—such as to animal protein, lactose, or gluten—avoiding these will benefit both their physical health and their ADHD symptoms.
- Eliminate food additives, preservatives, and artificial dyes. Choose foods without synthetic additives. Artificial colorants like erythrosine (red) and tartrazine (orange) can negatively affect the nervous system. For example, tartrazine, found in canned orange juices, removes zinc from the body—a vital trace element for learning and character development. Children with ADHD are especially vulnerable, so avoid carbonated drinks, canned juices, chewing gum, and most sweets.
- Limit sugar, artificial sweeteners, and “fast” carbohydrates. Large amounts of sugar can trigger behavioral issues, even in children without ADHD. Rapid increases in blood sugar often lead to a crash, bringing fatigue and mood changes. The body compensates by releasing “energy” hormones like adrenaline, causing physical symptoms such as tense muscles, nervousness, and excessive movement. Instead, use natural sweeteners in moderation—such as honey (if no allergy), stevia, fructose, or licorice. These provide energy without spiking blood sugar too quickly.
- Avoid tea and caffeine-containing foods and drinks. Even small doses of caffeine can overstimulate the nervous system of a child with ADHD and should be avoided completely.
- The Feingold diet (low-salicylate) has shown positive results in some cases. This diet eliminates not only synthetic additives and canned foods, but also natural foods high in salicylates, such as apples, grapes, oranges, apricots, cherries, raspberries, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
- Eat more complex carbohydrates. Support proper metabolism and healthy digestion by including complex carbohydrates in your child’s diet. Avoid refined flour and products; opt for whole grain options instead.
Advice:
To find out if your child’s lifestyle is healthy, take our psychological Parenting Mentor Test. You’ll receive an expert evaluation of your child’s current situation, plus recommendations for raising a more harmoniously developed child.
Vitamins and dietary supplements
- Lecithin. This supplement supports healthy brain function, improves memory, and stabilizes mood—key benefits for a child with ADHD.
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6). Our bodies do not produce these essential nutrients; they must be obtained through food or supplements. Omega-3 and Omega-6 are important for the liver, heart, kidneys, brain, and reproductive system. Children with ADHD are more likely to have deficiencies in these fatty acids, which may also show up as dry skin, thirst, or allergies. Add sources like fish oil, goose fat, corn oil, olive oil, or soybean oil to the diet to help prevent deficiencies.
- B group vitamins (B1, B2/riboflavin, B3, B5/pantothenic acid, B6, B9/folic acid, B12).
A lack of these vitamins can adversely affect digestion, nutrient absorption, and also lead to both muscle and mental weakness. B vitamins are mostly found in animal products. If your child avoids these foods, be sure to supplement with a B vitamin complex. - Magnesium. Magnesium can help manage hyperactivity by calming the nervous system and reducing stress. It also helps prevent the buildup of toxic lead in the nervous system. Good sources include nuts and rye bread—note that although cocoa is rich in magnesium, it is not recommended for hyperactive children.
- Zinc. Zinc is especially important for children with dermatological problems. It also supports learning and information processing. Eggs, milk, and meat are food sources, and dietary supplements are available if needed.
Psychological support in raising a child with ADHD
- Various types of therapy: art therapy, sand therapy, play therapy, and music therapy. By addressing fears, anxieties, low self-esteem, and aggression through engaging methods, children with ADHD can become both more socially accepted and internally calm.
- Behavioral therapy provides the following strategies for parents and adults working with children with ADHD:
Second, a stable, consistent daily routine will greatly benefit a child with ADHD. You can even create a colorful chart with your child, listing activities such as waking up, meal times, homework, outdoor play, sports, and more—this helps teach self-discipline.
Third, always reinforce desired behaviors! Use praise (verbal, physical, and eye contact) and shared activities. You can also use material rewards—such as tokens, cards, or points—that are built into a system of rewards and penalties. For not following agreed rules, points or tokens are removed as a mild penalty.
Fourth, the consequences for behavior, whether positive or negative (reward or penalty), should follow immediately after the action.
Fifth, periodically change how you reward your child, so that they remain interested and engaged.