4 Ways We Manage Our Son’s ADHD Without Medication
Five years after our son was diagnosed with autism, he got diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We weren’t surprised by this new diagnosis, if anything, I was more surprised it took that long. Our son was always very active, but we just assumed it was a symptom of his autism. After confirming and starting traditional ADHD medication, we quickly realized it was not for us. Our son had lost his personality, was constantly irritable, and was getting aggressive. We decided to stop medicating him and try other options. Below are three ways we manage ADHD without medication.
1. Magnesium
Magnesium is a major mineral our body needs to produce energy and body protein and maintain healthy bones and heart. Magnesium is naturally found in foods like leafy green vegetables such as spinach, nuts, whole grain, and seeds, however it is also added to some processed foods like breakfast cereal.
Research has shown that children on the autism spectrum as well as those diagnosed with ADHD usually have a magnesium deficiency, showing significantly lower levels of the mineral when compared to children without ADHD. Eating foods containing magnesium is the best way to feed your body this important mineral, but this may be difficult for children with a limited selection of food. While low levels of magnesium do not cause ADHD, increasing your intake can improve symptoms associated with the disorder.
Supplements are a great way to increase the amount of magnesium your child is getting. There are a few options to choose from as they come in liquid and powder form in a variety of flavours as well as in gummies. Our son is an extremely picky eater, so having options is a plus.
Since starting magnesium supplements he has been able to regulate his emotions and energy level more easily. One huge improvement I’ve noticed is an increase in social interaction. He’ll sit with us for longer periods, is more interested and engaged in learning activities and his vocabulary has increased.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is needed for proper absorption of calcium and phosphorous, maintaining strong bones, supporting immune health, and is also known to reduce inflammation. Vitamin D is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight and can be found in a few natural foods like oily fish and egg yolks. It can also fight diseases and regulate the central nervous system and overall mental health and mood.
Like magnesium, research has also shown that children diagnosed with ADHD have low levels of vitamin D. Most of the vitamin D we consume will come from processed foods and so many opt for supplements to ensure they get the required amount. We found it easier to use vitamin D drops and gummies and it helped in helping to reel him in when he was overstimulated.
3. CBD Oil
More research is needed on CBD and its effectiveness in treating certain illnesses. Here, I am sharing our experience.
Prior to starting, we consulted a medical doctor who completed an assessment of our son’s symptoms and diagnoses. Once complete, she recommended a course of treatment. Since starting, we’ve seen a reduction in hyperactivity. One huge plus for us is it helps with his sleep which is amazing. He sleeps for longer periods and is more likely to sleep through the night.
4. Sensory Equipment and Increased Physical Activity
Since his ADHD diagnosis, we have filled every empty space we can find in our home with sensory equipment to help our son regulate and get his energy out. We are regulars at trampoline parks and indoor gyms and we visit the playground as much as we can. We have used indoor trampolines, a swing egg chair, a carousel, and a peapod to help him be physical and provide sensory support to calm down. Weighted blankets and weighted lap toys and fidget toys also help him to remain calm when we need him focused on a task.
We advise that you speak with your child’s doctor before starting any supplements or other remedies to determine the best course of treatment for your child. We don’t regret our decision to stop his ADHD medication as he is much happier. We did our research and decided to try a more natural route and he has been doing much better.
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