ADHD is most commonly referred to in public as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, there are much deeper and more complex aspects to this disorder that many people may not have heard of. In this article, we will delve into the world of ADHD and use the latest scientific findings to provide a deeper understanding of this disorder.
1. ADHD Basics
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The main symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. To be diagnosed, symptoms must be present for at least six months, beginning in childhood, and cause problems in two or more areas of life, such as school, work, or family (1).
2. The brain background of the disorder
Brain function and structure have also been shown to be altered in people with ADHD. The most prominent abnormalities are in the frontal lobes, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and attention (2). However, further research has shown abnormalities in other areas of the brain, including the basal ganglia and cerebellum.
3. Genetic connections
Genetics is one of the biggest risk factors for ADHD. Research suggests that the condition has a strong genetic basis (3). More than 20 gene variants have been identified as risk factors for ADHD, most of which are related to the dopamine system and neural stem cell development.
4. Wide spectrum of symptoms
In addition to hyperactivity and inattention, people with ADHD often struggle with poor working memory, time management problems, procrastination, emotional lability, and social challenges (4). The intensity and appearance of symptoms vary from person to person, so the picture of ADHD can be very diverse.
5. Treatment options and the role of nutrition
ADHD treatment is multi-pronged, and while medication and behavioral therapy are one of the most commonly used combinations, lifestyle changes, especially nutrition, can be crucial in managing the condition.
Nutrition plays a central role in brain function, and certain foods or nutrients may affect ADHD symptoms:
Omega-3 fatty acids : Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids contribute to brain health and function. People with ADHD often have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids, so regular intake of fish oil or flaxseed oil is recommended (5).
Magnesium : Magnesium deficiency has been linked to nervousness and difficulty concentrating, so it’s recommended to eat foods rich in magnesium, such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, and legumes (6).
Zinc : Zinc is important for the functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain, and some studies show that zinc supplementation may be beneficial for people with ADHD (7).
Iron : Low iron levels have also been linked to attention deficit disorder. Iron-rich foods like red meat, eggs, and spinach can help increase your iron intake.
Food allergies and intolerances : Some research suggests that food allergies or intolerances may worsen ADHD symptoms. It’s worth paying attention to the effects of dairy, gluten, or artificial colors and preservatives ( 8 ).
In addition to nutritional advice, dietary supplements can also be of great help. The vSherpa for Focus dietary supplement, for example, was specifically developed to support concentration skills. In addition, in October, with every vSherpa for focus, we will also give you a free vSherpa Magnesium Bisglycinate + Vitamin B6 + Vitamin D3 + Zinc dietary supplement, which is particularly important for the normal functioning of the nervous system.
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October is ADHD Month, a time to raise awareness about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its effects. The goal of this month is to raise awareness of the daily challenges faced by people with ADHD, and to encourage people to seek out information about the condition and practice empathy. During the month, a number of events, workshops, and educational programs are held around the world to help people better understand the disorder and the issues surrounding it.
ADHD Month was launched in the 1990s, when more and more research and scientific articles began to highlight the prevalence of ADHD and its social impact. The month of October was chosen because it is the start of many school years, making it an ideal time for teachers, parents, and students to become more aware of the condition and its impact on schools.
Sources:
(1) American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5®) . American Psychiatric Pub.
(2) Shaw, P., Eckstrand, K., Sharp, W., Blumenthal, J., Lerch, JP, Greenstein, D., ... & Rapoport, JL (2007). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is characterized by a delay in cortical maturation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , 104(49), 19649-19654.
(3) Faraone, SV, Perlis, RH, Doyle, AE, Smoller, JW, Goralnick, JJ, Holmgren, MA, & Sklar, P. (2005). Molecular genetics of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Biological psychiatry , 57(11), 1313-1323.
(4) Barkley, RA (2014). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A handbook for diagnosis and treatment (4th ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.
(5) Bloch, MH, & Qawasmi, A. (2011). Omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation for the treatment of children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptomatology: systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry , 50(10), 991-1000.
(6) Mousain-Bosc, M., Roche, M., Polge, A., Pradal-Prat, D., Rapin, J., & Bali, JP (2006). Improvement of neurobehavioral disorders in children supplemented with magnesium-vitamin B6. I. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. Magnesium research , 19(1), 46-52.
(7) Bilici, M., Yıldırım, F., Kandil, S., Bekaroğlu, M., Yıldırmış, S., & Değer, O. (2004). Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of zinc sulfate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry , 28(1), 181-190.
(8) Pelsser, LM, Frankena, K., Toorman, J., Savelkoul, HF, Dubois, AE, Pereira, RR, ... & Rommelse, NN (2011). Effects of a restricted elimination diet on the behavior of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (INCA study): A randomized controlled trial. The Lancet , 377(9764), 494-503.
