Are there any alternatives to Ritalin for your child?
Deciding what treatment option to use when you have a child with ADHD isn’t easy but medication isn’t the only option.
Ritalin is one of the most common medications prescribed for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyper-Activity Disorder (ADHD), but alternatives may offer help and have fewer side effects.
While Ritalin is known to be effective in treating ADD and ADHD, this drug has come under scrutiny as serious side effects have begun showing up in patients. Because of this, many physicians and patients are now seeking alternatives to Ritalin that will be just as effective and a whole lot safer.
What is Ritalin?
Ritalin (also known as methylphenidate) works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. Methylphenidate may cause new or worsening psychosis (unusual thoughts or behaviour), especially if your child has a history of depression, mental illness, or bipolar disorder.
Ritalin and Omega 3
Natural drug alternatives have become quite popular in recent years. Now many individuals are searching for a way to treat ADD and ADHD that won’t result in side effects. One natural alternative to Ritalin is an Omega 3 supplement. While there are many foods that contain Omega 3, it can also be taken in supplement form on a daily basis.
Other great alternatives to Ritalin are herbal and homeopathic supplements. These supplements contain various nutrients that help the brain function well. Many parents have begun administering these to their children who suffer from ADD and ADHD and have experienced favourable results.
How diet can help ease symptoms
Dietary changes can also help to even out the symptoms of ADD and ADHD. Through a few simple modifications, positive changes can be made to the body as a whole. A diet high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids is recommended for individuals suffering from either of the disorders.
Such foods include eggs, beans, meats, and cheese. Certain types of fish such as salmon and tuna as well as nuts are also high in Omega-3. These foods are effective because protein and Omega-3 fatty acids promote dopamine and norepinephrine production in the brain.
A change in environment
Another type of modification that can effectively help to control ADD and ADHD is environmental. An environment that is more predictable will provide the stability needed to lessen the stimuli that can promote the symptoms of ADD and ADHD. Routine and structure make it easier for individuals suffering from these disorders to focus and remain on task.
Examples of environmental modifications would be labeling containers so it is clear which items should be placed where, using a timer while various tasks are completed to help individuals stay on task, and explaining the various steps of a particular task before it is carried out to make it clear and concise.
Supplements, diet, and environmental changes can be used in conjunction with one another to help lessen the symptoms of ADD and ADHD. This may help eliminate the need for Ritalin while promoting a healthy lifestyle. These changes can be effective throughout life and make it easier for individuals to deal with these disorders.
