Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is neuro-developmental condition that impacts focus, impulse control, and executive functioning. 

ADHD affects nearly 6% of adults and 11% of children in the US.(1)

Conventional treatment options such as medications can be very helpful in improving daily function, but nutritional and botanical interventions also offer a substantial benefit.

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

ADHD is diagnosed based on the criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition). (2,3)

The condition is categorized into three types:

• Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: Difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, disorganization, and frequent distractibility.

• Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Excessive talking, restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty waiting turns.

• Combined Presentation: A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

To receive a diagnosis, symptoms must be present for at least six months and significantly impact daily life in multiple settings (e.g., home, school, or work).

Where we are not sure why ADHD occurs, it is suspected that neuroinflammation, excitatory neurotransmitter imbalances (ie. Noradrenaline, glutamate, dopamine, etc.), and structural abnormalities in the subcortical structures of the brain may play a role. 

Conventional Treatment Options

Medications to manage ADHD include:

• Stimulant Medications: These include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse), which help increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.

• Non-Stimulant Medications: Options like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv) are available for those who do not tolerate stimulants.(4)

Aside from pharmacotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and executive function coaching can help individuals develop coping skills needed to improve organization and manage impulsivity.(4)

Naturopathic Support for ADHD

Dietary Interventions

Nutrition plays a key role in brain function and behavior. I’ve found that emphasizing the following can help improve focus in my patients:

• Elimination Trials: Identifying and removing food sensitivities (e.g., gluten, dairy, artificial dyes, and preservatives) may improve symptoms in some individuals as intolerances can contribute to worsened neuroinflammation.

• Blood Sugar Balance: A diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber can help stabilize blood sugar levels, support proper myelin function, reduce hyperactivity, lower inflammation and mood swings.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s support brain function and may improve attention and impulsivity.

• Iron, Zinc, Vitamin B6, and Magnesium: Deficiencies in these minerals have been linked to ADHD symptoms; sources include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins.

Botanical Support

• Bacopa monnieri: An adaptogenic herb that supports cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity.(5)

• Ginkgo biloba: Enhances blood flow to the brain and may improve attention and processing speed.(6)

• Rhodiola rosea: Supports focus and reduces stress-related cognitive fatigue.(6)

Nutritional Supplements

• Magnesium: Helps regulate neurotransmitters and may reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.

• Vitamin B6 (P5P): Supports neurotransmitter synthesis and may enhance mood and focus.

• L-Theanine: Found in green tea, this amino acid promotes calm focus without sedation.

• NAC: is the precursor to our liver’s Queen of antioxidants, glutathione. NAC plays a beneficial role in reducing neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and glutamate regulation. (7)

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References:

1. CDC. Facts about adhd in adults. Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

2. CDC. Diagnosing adhd. Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

3. Administration SA and MHS. Table 7, dsm-iv to dsm-5 attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder comparison.

4. Magnus W, Anilkumar AC, Shaban K. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2025.

5. Kean JD, Downey LA, Stough C. A systematic review of the Ayurvedic medicinal herb Bacopa monnieri in child and adolescent populations. Complement Ther Med. 2016;29:56-62.

6. Sharma A, Gerbarg PL, Brown RP. Non-pharmacological treatments for adhd in youth. Adolescent psychiatry (Hilversum, Netherlands). 2015;5(2):84.

7. Essa MM. Antioxidant therapies in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Front Biosci. 2019;24(2):313-333.