According to a study published two weeks ago in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry researchers demonstrated that supplementation with a multivitamin/mineral formula can help improve aggression and emotional regulation in children with ADHD.
This was the first randomized placebo controlled trial of children with ADHD who were not on medication.
In this study 93 children ages 7 to 12 years of age were given either a multivitamin/mineral formula or placebo for 10 weeks. During this time researchers obtained data from the childrens parents teachers and doctors. They measured ADHD symptoms levels of aggression mood emotional regulation general functional and impairment.
As a result 47% of the children taking the multivitamin/mineral formula improved much or very much.This was in comparison to 28% in the placebo group. In addition 32% of the children who received the supplement demonstrated improvements in attention; however there were no changes in impulsivity or hyperactivity.
This study showed that a multivitamin/mineral formula can improve emotion attention and general functioning in children with ADHD. Twice as many children in this study had severe mood dysregulation and were randomized to the supplement group which showed a clinically significant improvement compared to the placebo group.
Previous research has demonstrated specific nutrients and their positive impact on ADHD symptoms such as essential fatty acids carnitine and phosphatidylserine. Optimal nutrition is important for brain health influencing emotions and behavior which can impact ADHD symptoms. Gut dysfunction food sensitivities food dyes processed foods and low intake of fruits and vegetables can play a role.
The bottom line is this: we need to optimize every childs nutrient status based upon testing and recommend nutrition support accordingly. Also we cannot forgot to support these children with proper essential fatty acids supplementation. Addressing insufficiencies can assist with the optimization of brain function as well as help with some of the symptoms associated with ADHD all without harmful side effects.
By Michael Jurgelewicz DC DACBN DCBCN CNS
Source:
Designs for Health has been dedicated to being the most trusted source for superior quality, science-based nutritional products for nearly three decades. We’re committed to maximizing successful health outcomes by providing healthcare practitioners with comprehensive support through our extensive product line, ongoing clinical education, and practice development programs. The blogs we publish here cover a range of topics, including new and original approaches to diet and healthcare, analyses of the latest cutting-edge research, deep-dives into specific nutrients, botanicals, nutraceuticals and more, all fully referenced for those who want to dig deeper into the primary literature.
