ADHD Improved With Sleep

US research found that children suffering from behavioural disorders such as ADHD, who have their tonsils removed experience improvement in their condition. The research followed 78 children aged 5-18 who were scheduled to have a adenotonsillectomy, in most cases due to suspected night time breathing problems. A year after surgery, half of those diagnosed with ADHD no longer had the disorder.

Tonsillectomy was not the cure for ADHD said lead Author Ronald Chervin, of the university of Michigan sleep disorder centre. These findings help support the idea that sleep disorder breathing is actually helping to cause behavioural problems in children and making them sleepy (Paediatrics (2006) 117:769-778).

More research like this need to be carried out as there are many children who are immediately being prescribed dangerous drugs as soon as they are diagnosed with ADHD, instead of their parents and themselves being given lifestyle changing advice which can be just as effective, if not more.

As well as avoiding artificial additives and preservative in many children sweets, a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables and the herbs ginkgo biloba and mullein to improve memory and brain function and chamomile to help calm the child. If the child has a allergy to ragweed, only use chamomile for short periods of time, alternate it with catnip or alcohol free valerian root extract which can be added to the childs juice or water. Valerian has been shown to have dramatic results with no side effects. When using herbs with children, it is generally safe to use half the amount you would with an adult and crush herbal tablets between two spoons and sprinkle into the childs food. Seek advice if you are unsure. Herbs are possible the safest treatment for children aside from diet as long as you follow the advice of trained professionals.

If your child is ever considered to have ADHD, try to alter their diet, eliminating artificial preservatives and colourings found in sweets and fizzy drinks, as many refined sugars as you can find in their food, include a quality fresh source of essential fatty acids, even in the form of sunflower and pumpkin seeds given to them as a snack to help brain function and make sure they are getting enough sleep and a variety of activities in their day so they are kept interested and stimulated. Try these before you allow others to introduce sometimes harmful chemicals to your children and feel free to show this article and any other research you have done to your healthcare professionals if it will help.