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Your Must Know Guide To ADHD

By: Robert William Locke

What is the cause of ADHD in children ? Concerned parents can relax because it is NOT caused by too much TV, video games, poor diets, bad schooling, bad parenting and lack of vitamins! Much of the current research seems to point the finger at a genetic factor and/or biological causes.

What evidence is there to suggest a hereditary link? There seems to be a genetic tendency - about 25% of close relatives in families with ADHD are likely to suffer from this condition. The normal figure in the rest of the population is only about 5%.

What is the biological cause? Food colourings and additives such as E102, E104, E110 have come under a lot of scrutiny recently. In the latest study organized by the British Food Agency and published in the Lancet, the findings show that these colourings and additives in our kids' food tends to exacerbate their levels of hyperactivity.

Any imbalance of the chemicals that help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other, called neurotransmitters, may well be a factor in the development of ADHD symptoms. Without enough of these chemicals, the organizing centers of the brain don't work well and thus lead to impulsiveness and lack of concentration.

If children's food is at fault, should there not be a warning on the packaging? There is also the social impact to consider - children may well suffer if they cannot share their food with other kids. It must be pointed out that this research is in the early stages and therefore no firm conclusions can be drawn yet.

What drugs are used and how safe are they ? The most common drugs are :- Adderall, Concerta and Ritalin (stimulants). A popular non-stimulant drug is :- Strattera.

Do these drugs have side effects?. Much research is being done and there are concerns that children already with a heart condition can be at risk. Adderall was actually withdrawn in Canada for this very reason. Blood tests, blood pressure tests and monitoring of the heart need to be done regularly to make sure that the child is healthy.

Apart from drugs, what alternatives are available to parents? Sometimes, changes in diet, sleep and routine can be a great help. Another thing parents can consider are herbal and homeopathic remedies which can help to restore the balance in the child's nervous system. The great advantage is that there are no side effects or sedation and they can be beneficial in restoring good health and harmony within the family.

Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

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