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Dietary influence & nutritional deficiencies

Studies have shown that many mineral deficiencies exist for children with ADHD.  Mineral and vitamin deficiencies can lead to oxidative stress as well as altered neuronal plasticity.  This can have a huge impact on all children, but particularly those with ADHD.  Mineral deficiencies to be aware of include:

  • zinc
  • magnesium
  • iron
  • selenium
  • calcium.

Dopamine production is reliant on adequate levels of zinc and iron.  Zinc and copper are closely related and often a zinc deficiency may be the result of high copper levels.  This picture is common for children with behavioural disorders.

Environmental toxins and heavy metals are also a contributing factor for children with ADHD.  Heavy metals like lead, aluminium, mercury and cadmium all compete with nutritional elements and are able to cause deficiencies.  Environmental toxins (pesticides, herbicides, solvents, PCBs) also add to the toxic burden and impact a growing child’s developing nervous system.  In light of this, it is also important to consider the health of the mother before any conception and also during pregnancy and lactation.  It has been shown that environmental toxins can disrupt the expression of neurotransmitters and their receptors.  These changes to the brain may in fact have consequences not only into young childhood but also into adolescence and beyond.

Studies have shown that children with severe cases of ADHD and Autism have shown significant improvement in cognitive function and social interaction once toxic levels have been addressed. 

Source:  Pellow, J (et al), Complementary and Alternative Medical Therapies for Children with ADHA; Alternative Medicine Review

True Medicine offers various options to both assess and treat toxicity.  Discuss the options with Dagmar on 0468 774 633 today.