Based on the most current research in the field of molecular genetic studies, there are several genes mediating a susceptibility to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A literature review on this topic suggests that when there is a dysfunction in the “brain reward cascade,” the brain may require individuals to increase their levels of dopamine to avoid unpleasant feelings. This high-risk genetic trait results in multiple drug-seeking behaviors to release dopamine and reduce abnormal cravings. Furthermore, the neurotransmitters, Serotonin and GABA are both necessary for calming the brain and inhibiting distracting stimuli.
Since you are reading this article, I will assume that you are either suspecting a diagnosis of ADHD in yourself or your child or have already been diagnosed with it. Typically, individuals with ADHD are most often prescribed stimulant medications such as Ritalin, Dexedrine and Adderall, often without a proper psychological assessment. I cannot emphasize the importance of a full psychological evaluation as incorrect and insufficient diagnostic method may lead to a prescription medication that may bring more harm than help.
The role of psychotropic medications is to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. These neurotransmitters are critical for goal setting, concentration and focus. However, this does not come without a price. Common side effects include restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, headache, dryness of the mouth, gastrointestinal complaints and weight loss. Ritalin and Adderall are classified as “Schedule II” drugs (along with cocaine) by the Drug Enforcement Agency to indicate drugs with a high potential for abuse.
DID YOU KNOW THAT: Potential side effects of ADHD meds may include:
- Suicidal Thoughts/Actions
- Loss of Appetite
- Sleep Issues
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
- Painful Headaches
- High Blood Pressure
- Sudden Death
- Cardiatic Problems
- Mood Swings
- Depression
- Stroke
ADHD and the Microbiome:
There has been a tremendous amount of research linking the gut microbiome and neurological health. Research has indicated that low levels of healthy lactobacillus and bifidobacterium are linked with increased brain exciteability and neurological inflammation.
A 2013 study evaluated 742,939 children and demonstrated that those children with ADHD had a dramatic increased prevalence of constipation almost threefold higher than those without ADHD. Fecal incontinence was sixfold higher in the ADHD group, and visits to the doctor because of bowel issues was also dramatically increased in kids with ADHD.
Gut motility is a critical factor in the development and maintenance of a healthy microbiome. Individuals with ADHD most often have slow motility and a proliferation of microbes that secrete neurotoxic compounds such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS).
Additives and Chemical Preservatives:
ADHD is commonly seen associated with an inflammatory based diet and toxic food additives, dyes and preservatives. These food industry based chemicals are mild-moderately neurotoxic. They also have a strong synergistic affect when combined with sugars such as fructose. A recent Lancet study concluded that food dyes along with the preservative sodium benzoate (found in many soft drinks, fruit juices, & salad dressings) cause many individuals to become significantly more distractible. This study also found that food additives and dyes can do as much damage to the brain as lead in gasoline.
Gluten Sensitivity and ADHD:
Gluten is the common protein molecule found in wheat, barley, rye, kamut and spelt. Gluten is a sticky storage protein that binds to the small intestinal wall where it often causes digestive and immune system disorders. There is extensive research about gluten sensitivity and disorders in every part of the neurological system. Gluten is a significant trigger in neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD. 73%, that’s 3 out of 4 people, with gluten sensitivity have lack of blood flow to their brain. If you have one of these issues it is critical to go 100% gluten-free.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet:
An anti-inflammatory diet nutrition plan that is low in carbohydrate and rich in healthy fats and anti-oxidants is critical to preventing and treating ADHD. The brain is primarily water, fat and cholesterol. These are all key building blocks for promoting healthy brain function and rebuilding a damaged brain. The proper nutrition plan to beat ADHD is rich in phytonutrient dense vegetables, healthy fat and clean protein sources. Healthy fat sources such as coconut, avocados, olive oil & sprouted nuts and seeds must take a central role in the diet to promote healthy brain function.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids for ADHD:
There are many key nutrients that enhance the functioning of individuals with ADHD. Omega 3 fatty acids are perhaps the most effective nutrient in enhancing concentration and focus in ADHD individuals. Omega 3 fatty acids and in particular the long chain variety EPA and DHA are critical for stabilizing blood sugar, improving neurogenesis and neurotransmitter production.
Sources For The Above Research Include:
- Blum K, Chen AL-C, Braverman ER, et al. Attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder and reward deficiency syndrome. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. 2008.
- Blum K, Braverman ER, Holder JM, Lubar JF, Monastra VJ, Miller D, Lubar JO, Chen TJ, Comings DE. Reward deficiency syndrome: a biogenetic model for the diagnosis and treatment of impulsive, addictive, and compulsive behaviors. J Psychoactive Drugs. 2000 Nov;32 Suppl:i-iv, 1-112.
- Oades RD. Dopamine-serotonin interactions in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Prog Brain Res. 2008;172:543-65.
- Edden RA, Crocetti D, Zhu H, Gilbert DL, Mostofsky SH. Reduced GABA concentration in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2012 Jul;69(7):750-3.
- Advokat C, Scheithauer M. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) stimulant medications as cognitive enhancers. Front Neurosci. 2013 May 29;7:82.
- Advokat C. What are the cognitive effects of stimulant medications? Emphasis on adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2010 Jul;34(8):1256-66.
- Berman SM, Kuczenski R, McCracken JT, London ED. Potential Adverse Effects of Amphetamine Treatment on Brain and Behavior: A Review. Molecular psychiatry. 2009;
- Gonzalez A, Stombaugh J, Lozupone C, Turnbaugh PJ, Gordon JI, Knight R. The mind-body-microbial continuum. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience. 2011
- Holden JM, Meyers-Manor JE, Overmier JB, Gahtan E, Sweeney W, Miller H. Lipopolysaccharide-induced immune activation impairs attention but has little effect on short-term working memory. Behav Brain Res. 2008 Dec 12;194(2):138-45.
- Kanarek RB. Artificial food dyes and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Nutr Rev. 2011 Jul;69(7):385-91.
- Johnson RJ, Gold MS, Johnson DR, et al. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Is it Time to Reappraise the Role of Sugar Consumption? Postgraduate medicine. 2011;123(5):
- The Lancet – Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9-year-old children in the community: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
- Niederhofer H. Association of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Celiac Disease: A Brief Report. The Primary Care Companion to CNS Disorders. 2011
- Martí LF. Effectiveness of nutritional interventions on the functioning of children with ADHD and/or ASD. An updated review of research evidence. Bol Asoc Med P R. 2010 Oct-Dec;102(4):31-42.
- Bélanger SA, Vanasse M, Spahis S, et al. Omega-3 fatty acid treatment of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Paediatrics & Child Health. 2009
- Dr. David Jockers, 12 Strategies to Beat ADHD naturally
