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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is thought to affect between 3 to 5 percent of children. Many take prescription drugs to address symptoms associated with ADHD. According to an editorial in the British Medical Journal, eliminating artificial color additives and preservatives from the diets of children diagnosed with ADHD should be considered part of the standard treatment. Of course you should consult your pediatrician before making any changes to your child's treatment for ADHD, but since diet is heavily linked to child's focus issues some dietary changes could naturally increase your child's focus in school. Consider one of these suggestions:
- Skip foods that aggravate mental focus
Foods with refined sugar, too many carbohydrates, and corn syrup are said to aggravate ADHD. Food allergies, heavy metal toxicity, and caffeine found in sodas can make focusing difficult. Additionally, essential fatty acid (EFA) deficiency has been linked to ADHD in many cases. So skip the junk food, processed foods, and sodas. If you think your child could have EFA, try using flax seed oil. Add flax seeds to smoothies or oatmeal. - Make sure your child eats breakfast
A hungry child has trouble focusing. When blood sugars are low brain function decreases. Serve your child whole foods like fruits, oatmeal, and whole grain toasts. On a special day, try my sweet potato pancakes:
Sweet Potatoes Pancakes
2 organic eggs
1 cup grated organic sweet potatoes, roasted and mashed
3/4 cup whole organic wheat flour
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 tbsp olive oil
Method
- Beat all of the ingredients together until smooth.
- Pour mixture into skillet with olive oil until the mixture is brown on one side (it will bubble). Do the same with the other side.
Serve with good quality organic butter and real maple syrup. - Pack your kid's lunch
This is the easiest way to ensure that your child isn't eating tons of additives. Here's a guide to packing a greener lunch.
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Educate Kids With Local Green Adventures
Interested in hearing what celebrities have to say about green? Eavesdrop on their dinner conversations on Planet Green TV's Supper Club.
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