It has long been thought to be strictly a childhood disorder, occurring in 5.9%-7.1% of the population, but has recently been shown to continue on into adulthood, occurring 5.0% of the population (Childress & Sallee, 2014). ADHD is diagnosed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (Pellow, Solomon, & Barnard, 2011). ADHD had a significant impact on a child’s daily functions especially in the classroom. Studies have validated that children with ADHD have a lower IQ than children who do not have ADHD. It affects 5% of children in school worldwide (Prasad et al., 2013). Lower educational achievement and unemployment are closely related to adult ADHD (Childress & Sallee, 2014). Symptoms of ADHD include, hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. When looking for treatment options for these symptoms, scientists discovered …show more content…
Some of these factors are hypersensitivity to foods, Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency, and mineral deficiencies: zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, and selenium (Pellow, Solomon, & Barnard, 2011). Some parents are more comfortable with changing their child’s diet than giving them stimulant medication. Obtaining proper nutrients are important in the development of a child. If a child is on a fatty diet of “junk food” early in their life, they are more likely to be more hyperactive by the age of 7. This may also lead to a lifelong nutrient imbalance. Research has been done to prove the effectiveness of a restricted elimination diet in children with ADHD. In one study 62% of children with ADHD showed at least a 50% behavioral improvement on the parent rating on both the Conners, and ADHD Rating Scales, and they no longer met the DSM-IV criteria for ADHD (Pellow, Solomon, & Barnard, 2011). Increase in vitamin intake can decrease the symptoms of ADHD. In a 12-week, double-blind study, children showed a reduction in hyperactivity, impulsivity, and impaired socialization after taking 150-mg of zinc sulfate (Pellow, Solomon, & Barnard, 2011). Likewise, calcium and magnesium relax the nervous system and may help to reduce symptoms of ADHD such as, irribility, restlessness, fidgeting, muscle cramps, and