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How diet can affect mental health and overall behavior
There has always been information in the media as to how eating different foods/changing your diet can affect your general mood, attention span, behavior, and overall well-being. However, what about for different disorders. Though this is a recent discovery, it seems favorable that changing your child’s diet may help to manage symptoms associated with ADHD/ADD, Autism, and overall behavior. According to the attached articles written by Autism.com and everydayhealth.com, diet is a major factor in managing symptoms associated with the above mentioned disorders.
According to autism.com “Dietary intervention is a cornerstone of a evidence-based medical approach, and there is convincing empirical evidence that special diets help many with autism. A group of parent leaders who successfully implemented diets for their children compiled the following information and suggestions. These include references, resources, and links to aid parents as they begin exploring effective, evidence-based treatments.”
According to EverdayHealth.com, ‘What some foods do seem to do, however, is worsen ADHD symptoms or affect behavior that mimics the signs of ADHD in children. “Excessive caffeine and excessive use of fast foods and other foods of poor nutritional value can cause kids to display behavior that might be confused with ADHD,” said Frank Barnhill, MD, an expert on ADHD and the author of “Mistaken for ADHD.”
Terrible foods for children who suffer with ADD/ADHD (and other behavior issues/inattention) include the following:
- Candy
- Soda
- Frozen fruits and veggies that contain organophosphates
- Cake mixes and frostings
- Energy drinks
- Fish and other seafood (with mercury)
- Other food sensitivities (e.g. allergies or intolerances)
Therefore, with that said, it is clear that changing your child’s (or your) diet will not solve/cure these disabilities… however, they can help manage associated symptoms, but talk to your pediatrician first 🙂
https://www.autism.com/treating_diets
http://www.everydayhealth.com/adhd-pictures/how-food-can-affect-your-childs-adhd-symptoms.aspx#08
