Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) are two well-known developmental disorders that affect people of all ages and backgrounds. With ADD and ADHD, parts of the brain are underdeveloped or understimulated. Doctors prescribe medications such as Adderall, Concerta, Cylert and Ritalin for children with ADHD and ADD, but these are stimulants that can have long-term side effects. Dr. Daniel Amen has described six types of ADD, only one of which is the classic ADHD. His work shows the differences between the types of the disorder as well as ways to treat them vitamins and diet.
Combined Type ADHD
When most people think of ADHD, the combined type is what comes to mind. Commonly found in boys, it is combined with the hyperactivity that makes the ADHD obvious. Brain studies show that this ADHD has less activity in the prefrontal cortex and premotor cortex. A lean-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is recommended with few simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates---such as vegetables, whole-wheat products, beans and fruit---are recommended. Vitamins suggested for this type of ADD are the amino acid L-tyrosine, grape seed extract, pine bark extract and gingko biloba.
Inattentive ADD
Inattentive ADD shows in those children who seem easily distracted and who are disorganized in their desks, rooms or lockers. They are usually late, lose things and don't remember details. They are not hyperactive, and some people, especially girls, never get diagnosed since most educators tend to look more at impulsive boys for the disorder. Dietary needs are the same as combined ADHD. The recommended vitamins are the same as well.
Overfocused ADD
People with overfocused ADD tend to follow strict behavior schedules and have trouble changing their routine and focus if change must be made. They also have trouble shifting from one thought to another, one activity to another. Nutritional changes can be especially helpful to this type of ADD sufferer since food can increase the lower serotonin levels associated with it. Lower protein intake and more carbohydrates will increase the natural serotonin level. Carbohydrates should be complex, such as whole grains and vegetables. Foods rich in tryptophan---such as eggs, peas, milk, turkey, peanut butter, chicken, salmon and potatoes---also are helpful. Recommended vitamins include 5-HTP, inositol and St. John's wort.
Temporal ADD
People with temporal ADD show lower activity in the temporal lobe, which is located behind the ears, while doing tasks that need concentration. They have a quick temper and panic or show fear. L-glutamine is an amino acid that produces a calming effect for the temper and reactions. Also recommended are gingko biloba, vitamin E and PS (phosphatidylserine). The diet should include more protein and fewer complex carbohydrates. It is highly recommended that sufferers from of ADD eat a high-protein breakfast.
Limbic ADD
If the sufferer has low energy and short attention spans, and is unfocused and disorganized, he might have limbic ADD. This type of ADD sufferer is often misdiagnosed as depressed. Balanced nutrition is particularly beneficial to maintain the brain's limbic system, which helps control mood. A healthy diet with proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats---such as the Zone Diet by Dr. Barry Sears---is recommended. Exercise and the vitamins SAMe, St. John's wort, L-tyrosine and 5-HTP are also helpful to limbic ADD sufferers.
Basal Ganglia ADD
This type of ADD is also referred to as "Ring of Fire" ADD and is the most difficult. These people have trouble with their thoughts, feelings and temper. They also show motor skills problems that add to their frustrations. They can be moody and bossy, as well as talkative and unpredictable. A balanced diet of protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats is recommended for those who show the anxiety often related to basal ganglia ADD. If the sluggish form is present, go with the higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate diet. Vitamins include kava kava, valerian and B vitamin complex.
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