There is no way to predict if one might suffer from ADHD and at the same time if someone is already suffering from ADHD. It is hard to identify this disorder unless the person’s hyperactivity behavior is closely monitored. There are several natural remedies for treating ADHD without any medication. Some of these include making some lifestyle changes like exercising, having a healthy diet by tweaking certain food habits.

Here is a list of everyday changes we can implement to manage ADHD symptoms more effectively. It is also important that a logbook is maintained to monitor the improvements, effects, setbacks, etc., which can then be used to discuss with a medical professional to get suitable suggestions on the treatment of ADHD:

1. Behavioral therapy

This is a structured strategy that combines discipline and behavioral education to teach children (especially under the age of five) which can be rewarding with the desired behavior from those with ADHD. These behavioral changes can be achieved by getting children to follow directions, elimination of undesired actions, etc. There are also some behavioral parent training (BPT) programs that teach parents to have effective and productive interactions with their children who are suffering from ADHD. This therapy aims at strengthening the parent-child relationship for long-term behavior improvement.

2. Consuming an omega-3 fatty acids-rich diet

This is important for the functioning of the brain and nerve cells. Since omega-3 fatty acids cannot be made by the body, it is important to get them through food and supplements. It is abundantly found in fish oil.

3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

This therapy aims at changing the thought patterns of a person suffering from ADHD. In a person with ADHD, certain irrational or negative thoughts interfere with their brain staying focused on one task. Generally, a person suffering from ADHD has thoughts like “I have to do this task perfectly or don’t do it” and when it isn’t perfect, they think “I’m not good at anything”. These are some of the negative thoughts that bother them, and CBT helps them to overcome these thoughts.

4. A protein-rich diet

A balanced and nutritious diet is an important tool for managing the symptoms of ADHD. Studies have shown a relationship between the consumption of proteins and carbohydrates and our level of mindfulness. While protein is found to trigger alertness-inducing neurotransmitters, carbohydrates have been linked with a trigger of drowsiness. Also, protein controls the blood sugar surges which in turn avoids an increase in hyperactivity. The requirement of proteins depends on the age and it is recommended that a daily breakfast is balanced with complex carbohydrates and protein.

5. Make exercise a daily routine

Exercise helps in the effective and efficient functioning of the brain. It increases the release of endorphins, which are responsible for improving the mood. Along with this, exercise also helps in elevating the levels of hormones like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain which are important to increase the brain’s capacity to focus and pay attention. Short-term aerobic exercises like walking, yoga, martial arts, ballet, etc., are found to have positive effects on ADHD symptoms like attention deficiency, executive function, hyperactivity, impulsivity, etc.