ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is a mental health disorder that leads to difficulty concentrating and unable to sit in a single position. The patient suffers from hyperactive and impulsive behavior. This medical condition affects both adults and children. Read on to know more about symptoms, medication, and natural remedies for ADHD.

Symptoms of ADHD

The symptoms of ADHD are mentioned below.

1. Distraction
2. Restlessness
3. Difficulty in concentrating at work
4. Forgetfulness

Medications for ADHD

ADHD is treated via the following two categories of medications.

1. Stimulants
Stimulants aid in improving focus.

2. Non stimulants
If stimulants cannot be used, then non-stimulant medications are prescribed. These ADHD medications have some side effects. These side effects vary from person to person. Some of the commonly recorded side effects include mood swings, change in sleeping patterns, and loss of appetite.

Natural Remedies for ADHD

1. Spend time outdoors
A study conducted in 2011 suggested that spending time outdoors and among greenery is a natural treatment for both adults and children with ADHD.

2. Vitamins and minerals
ADHD patients should have a diet that efficiently replenishes the required amount of vitamins and minerals in the body. Vitamins and minerals are important for the maintenance and health of neurotransmitters in the body. Children and adults with ADHD should have a diet that is replete with vitamin C, vitamin B6, zinc, and iron to manage the symptoms of ADHD.

3. Exercise
Exercising regularly is one of the most important natural remedies for ADHD. The brain functions better when a person exercises. The reason for this is that after exercise, the body releases endorphins that elevate the mood of a person. Apart from this, exercise increases the levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. This increases the concentration and focus of people with ADHD.

4. Yoga
Yoga is another natural remedy for ADHD as it helps increase concentration levels and reduces hyper-activeness in adults and children suffering from ADHD. Furthermore, yoga also helps in dealing with anxiety issues in ADHD patients.

5. Avoid foods that contain allergens
ADHD patients should avoid food items that contain allergens like foods with preservatives, milk, eggs, and potato chips. Food containing naturally occurring salicylates like oranges and tomatoes should also be avoided.

6. Meditation
Meditation is one of the most effective natural remedies for ADHD. With regular meditation, concentration levels increase. Furthermore, it also helps adults and children with ADHD to maintain calm and remain composed.

7. Maintaining protein levels
Maintaining protein levels in the body is a natural remedy for ADHD. Balanced protein levels maintain the health of the neurotransmitters that are responsible for maintaining alertness levels in the body. Your meals should consist of enough proteins to help supplement this requirement. Examples of protein-rich foods are legumes and whole grains.