People with ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder require a special diet. There are several types of foods that are considered good for people with ADHD, but there are also those that are feared to make ADHD symptoms worse.
ADHD is one of the disorders in child development. ADHD is characterized by symptoms of difficulty focusing, attention being easily distracted, talking a lot, and always wanting to be active.
Recommended Food Options for ADHD Children
Some types of food that are good to give to children with ADHD are:
1. Eggs
Making eggs one of the diets of children with ADHD is the right step. This protein source food is believed to be able to increase the concentration of ADHD children and help the effectiveness of the ADHD drugs consumed by children.
2. Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are also a good food group for children with ADHD. Foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates are believed to make it easier for children to sleep. Some types of fruit and vegetables that can be an option are oranges, apples, pears, potatoes, and pumpkins.
So that children are more enthusiastic when eating fruits and vegetables, don't forget to set an example, Mother. One way is to adopt the habit of eating with family. That way, you and other family members can set an example for eating fruits and vegetables.
3. Milk
Calcium is one of the important minerals that children need during their growth period, including children with ADHD. Calcium is useful for stimulating the formation of hormones and maintaining a healthy nervous system in children. Some choices of foods and drinks that are rich in calcium are milk, yogurt, and cheese.
4. Fish rich in omega-3
Other foods that are no less important for ADHD children are foods rich in omega-3. Examples of foods that contain lots of these fatty acids are mackerel, sardines, and salmon.
Foods or Drinks that ADHD Children Should Restrict
Children with ADHD are advised to limit their consumption of the following foods:
1. Candy or sweet food
Some children will be more active after consuming sweets or foods containing sugar, such as chocolate or candy. Therefore, mothers are recommended to limit the provision of sweet foods to children.
2. Foods or drinks containing artificial sweeteners
Many packaged foods or drinks sold in the market, such as cereals or soft drinks, contain artificial sweeteners. Be careful, giving children with ADHD food or drinks that contain artificial sweeteners can make them more active, you know!
Therefore, mothers need to be more careful in choosing packaged food and beverage products, in order to limit the intake of artificial sweeteners in children with ADHD.
3. Fast food
Fast food does feel more practical and much favored by children. However, mothers should limit giving fast food to children.
Besides being unhealthy, fast food is also believed to increase the risk of behavior disorders in children. This is related to the high content of salt, sugar, and fat in these foods.
4. Fish that contain mercury
Fish is indeed a good food for children with ADHD. However, not all fish are recommended for ADHD children.
As much as possible avoid giving fish that are at risk of containing mercury, such as mackerel and swordfish. Eating fish or foods containing mercury is believed to make children hyperactive.
5. Caffeine
In addition to the several types of food above, the consumption of foods and drinks containing caffeine also needs to be avoided by ADHD children, Mother. Examples of caffeinated foods and drinks are chocolate, coffee, tea, or soft drinks.
Being a parent of a child with ADHD does have its challenges. However, don't give up, Mother. Pay attention to feeding your child with ADHD, and take the medication and therapy given by the pediatrician diligently.
