Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a very well-known condition. It’s estimated that just over 4% of adults in the United States have ADHD.

natural treatments for adhdAs it is oftentimes the case in our society, sufferers are told that the only solution available is to take prescription medication. However, this is a narrow view, and it’s a false one. Just as with other disorders, a one-size-fits-all approach is not necessarily appropriate for everyone.

In fact, there are several options for treating ADHD, including non-drug options—from lifestyle changes to therapeutic approaches such as neurofeedback.

If you are interested in natural treatments for ADHD, consider the following options.

Physical Activity

Physical activity is one of the easiest to implement, go-to natural treatments for ADHD. People with ADHD, especially kids, need to move. You can accomplish this in many ways, both big and small.

For instance:

  • Taking frequent breaks from work to get up and move around
  • Getting involved in sports and activities you enjoy doing regularly
  • Owning a dog (because you have to walk your pet!)
  • Participating in activities such as yoga or Tai-Chi

But remember, don’t just do one activity. Incorporate a variety of physical activities throughout your day and week.

For example, you could stretch and do some light exercise in the morning to wake up. Then, at lunch, take a walk in the park next to your office building. In the evening, it’s off to the gym or playing soccer in a rec league.

Getting Outside

Spending time outdoors is also a very helpful natural treatment for ADHD. Research is finding that it can have many positive effects similar to taking medication.

However, you don’t have to go all the way into the mountains to get your outdoors fix. If you live in the city, take advantage of your public parks program and facilities. Even better, do physical activities that require you to go outside—which can include traditional team sports.

And why not spice it up with a little outdoor adventure? You don’t have to be an elite rock climber to get the benefits of nature and physical activity. Hiking, biking, and swimming all work too!

Healthy Eating Habits

It’s important for anyone to eat a healthy and nutritious diet. However, for addressing ADHD, what you eat can actually be critical for managing your disorder.

Include a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein. Cut back on sugary foods, junk food, and caffeine. Some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids could be helpful for people with ADHD. Omega-3 is commonly found in seafood products, such as salmon. But you can get omega-3 in supplement form.

A word of caution, though. If you do decide to make any significant dietary changes, consult with your medical provider and a nutritionist first before doing so.

Neurofeedback

You may have never thought of it, but neurofeedback therapy is also an option for naturally treating ADHD. It is a therapeutic method that does not use medications. Rather, it relies on reading your brainwaves. Sensors are attached to your head and transmit data to a monitor, which displays your brainwave patterns.

By working with a therapist who is trained in neurofeedback, you can work together to understand how your brain responds to stimuli.

Interestingly, you can actually train your brain to develop new thinking patterns through neurofeedback therapy. For instance, let’s say you want to improve your focus (a common struggle for those with ADHD). Under the guidance of the therapist, you perform exercises to improve your focus that eventually will shift your brain patterns.

Utilizing several strategies is important for treating ADHD. Fortunately, there are many options available that don’t require medication. These non-drug options, including neurofeedback, offer people with ADHD choices for natural treatments.

If you are struggling with ADHD, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Contact me to find out how ADHD counseling can work for you.