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Common sense summary from Dr Gleenblat
ADHD is the most recent name for a complex neuro-biological
disorder which can occur in children, adolescents, or adults. Symptoms
usually include difficulty with attention, concentration, memory, organization,
and. for some, impulsivity, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, and relationship
problems. There is a wide range of behaviours associated with ADHD. Variability
of symptoms is a hallmark of this disorder.
Diagnosis
and Assessment
There is no one test for diagnosing ADHD.
A comprehensive evaluation by experienced
professionals is necessary to rule out the
presence of other conditions. Learning
disabilities, depression, anxiety, oppositional
behaviours, and other psychiatric or medical
disorders may coexist with ADHD.
Individuality & Variability
It is important to emphasize that every case
of ADHD is unique. Biological,
psychological, and social factors can all work
together to, create an individualized symptom
picture. Genetic predisposition, brain wave
or neuro- chemical imbalances, nutritional
deficiencies, food sensitivities, family and
school dynamics, and emotional stressors
may be involved. For this reason, it is best to
design a treatment plan able to address
specific individual needs.
The Importance of
Treatment
Without treatment, ADHD can lead to
profound distress at school, work, or home,
resulting in academic or professional failures,
poor social skills, low-self-esteem,
depression, anti-social behaviours, or
substance abuse.
Treatment Options
A multidisciplinary, multi modal approach is believed to
provide the most effective treatment for
ADHD. This includes options for both conventional medical
and alternative therapies, with
behavioural management, nutritional modifications, parent
training, and individual, family, or
group therapy, and medication as needed.
Medical Treatment
Symptoms of ADHD often improve through
the use of medications. The most common are
stimulant drugs, particularly Ritalin and
Dexedrine. With the right choice of medication
at the correct dosage for a particular
individual, many report significant symptom
improvement. Other medications are also
prescribed. Unfortunately, none of these
medications treat the biochemical or
neurological imbalances underlying ADHD,
and many have side effects,
Natural & Alternative Therapies
Many forms of alternative treatment have been effective
in resolving, symptoms of
ADHD without reliance on long-term use of medications.
These therapies work to
rebalance the brain neurochemistry in a variety
of ways.
EEG Biofeedback
EEG Biofeedback is computerized training
which teaches children and adults to
recognize and control specific brain waves.
Researchers have found that those with
ADHD have an abundance of Theta
waves (associated with daydreaming and
inattentiveness and lowered levels of Beta
waves (associated with concentration and
focus). Through a series of training
sessions, EEG Biofeedback helps
individuals learn to control these brain
wave patterns and their behaviours.
Nutritional Therapies
Brain function and neurochemistry is very
sensitive to the intake of nutrients through diet.
The need for specific nutrients can vary
greatly, with some individuals requiring much
higher or lower amounts of certain foods or
food components. Further research in this area
is needed, but many doctors and patients
report long-term improvements following the
application of dietary changes and/or
nutritional supplementation. Those with
symptoms of ADHD should be assessed
through blood work and nutritional analysis to
see if the following factors have an impact on
their disorder,
Food Allergies/ Sensitivities
Carbohydrate Sensitivity
Essential Fatty Acid Imbalances
here
Protein/Amino Acid Deficiencies here
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies~
here
Free Radical Damage
Sensitivity to Sugars or Caffeine
Sensitivity to Food Additives
Exposure to Environmental Toxins~ here |
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Each of these areas may have a powerful effect on symptoms.
For example, the removal of a wheat or dairy allergen for a sensitive
individual, or the addition of the correct form and dose of an essential
fatty acid can lead to far-reaching positive changes in brain chemistry,
function, and associated behaviours.
Blood Chemistry Analysis
Standard blood chemistry profiles
currently used by general practitioners are
not able to provide a full picture of a
patient's health status. New biochemical
laboratory tests, using computerized
databases, can now provide detailed
information on bodily systems and
nutritional status. Such a blood analysis
helps the doctor to understand how to best
treat and rebalance the biochemistry of a
particular patient, through changes in diet,
elimination of allergens, or the addition of
missing nutrients.
Dr. Greenblatt writes:
"I have learned many things from the thousands of families
and children I have worked with over the years. The most
significant lesson I relearn with every patient is how complex
our uniqueness really is. This concept of individuality extends
beyond looks, intelligence and personality. This individuality
defines our core metabolism and biochemistry. This unique
metabolic puzzle supports our ability to pay attention, inhibit
unwanted behaviours and regulate our moods.
"In children and adults suffering from ADHD, we have found
profound nutrient deficiencies and biochemical abnormalities.
The science is now available to explore these unique metabolic
profiles and begin to understand our individualized
biochemical fingerprints. Treating the underlying biochemistry
addresses the core of the problem. I believe this is preferable
to only providing temporary relief of symptoms through
medication."
Each
month the top 10 books on ADD or ADHD from the whole of the website are
listed here. They are the books that others are reading and finding helpful,
and we therefore recommend them to you.This month's top 10 are below
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in association with our trusted partners amazon.com, just by clicking on
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