Another Daily Dose

Attention deficit hyperactive disorder or ADHD as it is now more commonly referred to is full of disturbing facts and mysteries. Here is the first one. The diagnosis of ADHD consists of various questionnaires which assess the child’s behavior and whether it is holding back his normal development. Nothing wrong with that, as the parents and teachers have to answer the questions. The problem is that the most likely cause of ADHD is a chemical imbalance in the brain and /or abnormal brain development. The most obvious thing to do would be a brain scan but this is done in very few cases. Dr. Amen, an ADHD expert has said that it will take about twenty years before the brain scan is actually standard practice. Until then, we are going to be swimming around in a sea of uncertainties.

Look at the second disturbing fact about attention deficit hyperactive disorder. Dr. Jon Jureidini is Head of Psychiatry at Adelaide’s Women’s and Children’s Hospital and he is alarmed about the increase in the number of psychotic episodes (almost doubled in 3 years) in children who are on these ADHD drugs. These drugs are psychostimulants and they are household names by now. Ritalin, Adderall, Strattera all spring to mind. Hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, depression, psychosis and mania are now being reported (admittedly in very small numbers) in ADHD children on this medication. There have even been a few cases of five year old children attempting suicide! It seems like a horror movie looking at the future but it is happening now and it is for real, unfortunately. Dr. Jureidini is doubtful about the benefits of these drugs and is alarmed at the fact that there has been so little research done on the side effects.

The third disturbing fact to haunt us parents is that attention deficit hyperactive disorder is being overdiagnosed. Not only is the actual method of diagnosis highly questionable but the number of diagnoses has taken an exponential leap and the numbers of children with ADHD is now about 5% of the child population. Very often, child behavior problems are caused by a multiple of other conditions and these are often confused with ADHD. Let me give you a few examples. It could be a food allergy, emotional problems at school or indeed in the home, thyroid deficiency, mineral or vitamin deficiency, yeast infections, hearing problems or an eyesight problem. There have even been cases of teachers insisting that children are put on psychostimulant drugs long before there has been a proper diagnosis by a child specialist or psychiatrist.

Isn’t it time to stand back from all this and get a proper diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactive disorder if it is suspected. Then, consider all the treatment options and there are many. Look at the drugs and assess whether you want your child on a powerful mind altering drug which could also affect his heart. Then take a look at ADHD homeopathic remedies where you will be surprised to learn that there are no side effects and no health risks at all. Because of powerful lobbies, these facts are not well known. Learn more about these unsung remedies by clicking on the link below.

Discover what is the best attention deficit hyperactive disorder information available. Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/the-disturbing-facts-about-attention-deficit-hyperactive-disorder-1493416.html

There is a lot of misunderstanding about ADHD which is basically a neurological condition in which the child has a certain chemical imbalance which means that he or she has difficulty in concentrating and may be hyperactive and impulsive. How do children get ADHD? It is not a disease in that it is contagious like a cold or measles but it is a mental disorder or condition

How do children get ADHD? Many parents are convinced it is hereditary and that it can be quickly diagnosed. First, there is a genetic tendency but it is low at 25%. Diagnosis is not that simple and in fact, the disorder may be mistaken for food allergies, thyroid problems, poor eyesight or parasites. It could even be a structural problem which is affecting the child’s behavior and everybody thinks it is ADHD.

How do children get ADHD? There are loads of people who think that a sugary diet full of processed foods can actually cause ADHD. This is not true. It is true however, that a poor diet like the one above can impact on the child’s behavior. Let me give you an example. Did you know that if a child’s diet is lacking in protein (fish, beans, eggs, nuts and so on), some symptoms of ADHD may worsen. Why? Because proteins can help to build healthier neurotransmitters in the brain and these control impulsivity and levels of concentration.

Look at sugar and food colourings for example. They tend to cause a surge in blood sugar and that can cause more hyperactivity and restlessness. The answer is simply to favour proteins instead of carbohydrates and that will prevent sugar crashes. At breakfast, protein should be given to the child and complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruit and vegetables are the best thing you can give your child to start the day. Some parents favour coffee and or a caffeine drink but this is not recommended as it is a stimulant and is acting in a similar way to the psychostimulant drugs (Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse) which increase the heart rate, so it is better to avoid caffeine drinks.

There is a much more important question than how children get ADHD which is that concerning the treatment. Treating a chemical imbalance in the brain with psychostimulant drugs which are very similar to ‘uppers’ and cocaine, is hardly the way to begin a serene and happy childhood. Parents are now turning in droves to ADHD homeopathic remedies which have no side effects and will not lead to drug dependency. No risk of heart disease, depression or even suicide. These are gentle remedies which can restore calmness and help a distracted child to stay focused.

Discover more about how children get ADHD . Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/how-do-children-get-adhd-1493432.html

The main causes of ADHD in children are NOT caused by bad parenting or even by a poor diet. So, what ARE the causes of ADHD? The experts now seem to agree that the main causes are either genetic, environmental or abnormal brain development. Sometimes, other factors play a role too such as the health of the mother during pregnancy or some brain injury but these seem marginal.

One of the main causes of ADHD in children seems to be a malfunctioning of the brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine which control our attention span and determine how long we can stay focused. These also play a role in how we perceive rewards and gratification and so are linked directly to motivation. That is why ADHD children seem to do so much better when they are enjoying some activity and they can hyperfocus too on computer games which shows that attention deficit can actually be improved by providing more enjoyable activities.

The genetic link has been researched extensively and there are calculations that up to 25% of people with ADHD actually have a close relative who may also suffer from the condition. It is not unknown that ADHD in adults is often undetected until the parents discover that they too have the same problem when their children are diagnosed. That helps empathy but it can play havoc with organising a routine and providing a structured life for the ADHD child.

The dietary causes of ADHD in children have been researched, it seems, ad nauseum. Actually, it now appears that when diet is improved, up to 5% of ADHD children may actually benefit but some of the original causes were food allergies. Other studies showed that there was a lack of zinc, magnesium and EFAs (essential fatty acids). There have been no conclusive studies though to show that a poor diet may actually cause ADHD but it can exacerbate symptoms. Sugar and food additives have long been blamed for increasing hyperactivity in children but one study showed that the mothers perceptions were skewed because they knew their kids had a high dose of sugar so they were expecting a hyperactive reaction.

Whatever the causes of ADHD in children, many parents are wisely avoiding ADHD medications which are psychostimulants. They not only stimulate the brain but also the heart and so there are many question marks hanging over this type of treatment. By now, Ritalin, Attenta and Dexedrine are household names. ADHD homeopathic remedies are now gaining well deserved respect as a valid alternative ADHD treatment without any of the risks or nasty side effects of the psychostimulants. You can find out more about how these remedies can really help your ADHD child to grow to be a successful and fulfilled adult.

Discover more about the causes of ADHD in children . Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/what-are-the-main-causes-of-adhd-in-children–1493460.html

It is a tragedy that so many ADHD children are given amphetamine type drugs to cure their ADHD as the first option. Every other option comes much later and often when the damage is done. What are the best ADHD treatment options and why are ADHD meds NOT one of them?

These ADHD drugs carry the FDA black box warning and that is the maximum level of alert for them. That means implications for heart disease, depression, suicidal thoughts and potential for drug abuse. Not convinced? You may well wonder why children are given these drugs which are fancy names for ’speed’, ‘uppers’ which are still classed as Schedule II drugs. That means that the potential and risk for substance abuse is there and it is no wonder that Adderall tablets will sell for up to $15 each,on the school parking lot. Is this the best we can do for our ADHD children?

Is ADHD treatable? While ADHD is treatable,there is no cure for ADHD so the teachers, parents, paediatricians and doctors who are prescribing these medicines in tonnes (literally!) are not addressing the real problem because they will never cure ADHD and they never will help children to be accountable and responsible for their actions and behavior. Just because they temporarily relieve some of the ADHD symptoms of hyperactivity, restlessness and fidgeting does not mean it is a cure. I would hardly call it one of the valid ADHD treatment options.

I know one ADHD child who was on Adderall, Concerta and then Dexedrine. The side effects were destroying his quality of life and they ranged from insomnia, weight loss, feeling drowsy during the day and also feeling miserable and started to cry a lot. What was worse was when the effects of the meds began to wear off, all hell was let loose and the screaming and the yelling started.

In my opinion, the best ADHD treatments options consists of watching diet a bit more carefully as processed foods can harm a child and lead to obesity, heart disease and diabetes and may also cause mood swings because of sugar ‘crashes’. You will be doing your child a great favour. Avoid the following types of foods:- boxed cereals, food bars, cookies, frozen desserts, processed breads and flours, pop tarts, and packaged desserts, soft drinks, soda, sugary drinks and frozen fast food like pizzas. Try to increase fruit, vegetables, smoothies and nuts and other healthy snacks.

Is ADHD treatable with homeopathic cures? These cures are now enjoying fantastic success and the reasons are easy to understand. They actually are a calming remedy and will help the child to concentrate and focus. Hyperactivity is also reduced and the homeopathic ingredients help to restore the lost balance caused by ADHD. There are no side effects and the long term health risks are zero. If this type of treatment is combined with sensible behavior modification techniques, then this is one of the best, if not THE best ADHD treatment options.

Discover what are the best ADHD treatment options available. Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/what-are-the-best-adhd-treatment-options–1493474.html

Those who are schooled in and familiar with the field of dyslexia will quickly admit that one of the principle challenges for the dyslexic student is identifying, spelling, and pronouncing homonyms and homophones.

While today’s technology has made dyslexic software easily available, there is still a need for caution when selecting a dyslexic software program for homonyms.

One of the basic approaches until now has been having the dyslexic student use a spell checker to check her work. Since the dyslexic person will often reverse the order of letters when reading or writing words, a spell checker seemed like a good idea.

The use of the spell checker would allow the student to go back over her work and make sure that all words were spelled correctly. This works well except for homonyms and non-homonym words that have visually similar spelling.

For example a spell checker would not tell you that “red” should be “read” in the sentence, “I red the book last night.” Instead, our dyslexic student would receive a “Spell check complete, no errors found.” message from the spell checker.

A spell checker would also see no problem with the word “super” which should be “supper” in the sentence, “I ate super last night.” Even though this is not a homonym problem sentence, to the dyslexic student, the sentence still may appear correct.

The simple fact is that a spell checker alone addresses only part of the problem. What is needed is a dyslexic software program that identifies words that are not only phonetically similar, but visually similar as well, and then provides a means of correcting such words based on the context of the sentence.

Dyslexic software of this type would address the needs of the student that must deal with dyslexia as well as teachers, groups and organizations that have undertaken the noble task of meeting this most persistent challenge to the dyslexic student.

When choosing among the dozens of dyslexic software products on the market, look for those that do more than just part of the job. The extra effort will require some digging and investigating, but the find will be well worth the time spent for the dyslexic student and those dedicated to helping him.

A google search on the keyword dyslexic software would be a good starting point.

The dyslexic software program, Homonym Words Dictionary, has evolved into an excellent tool for dyslexic student as well as her parents, teachers, and schools. The software gives one the tools needed for learning and mastering homonyms. Click HERE for details and a free demo.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/dyslexic-software-1500998.html

Just imagine if there was one main ADHD cause! That would make life simpler if it were due to genetic factors, or diet, or the environment or conditions during pregnancy. It could have something to do with the structure of the brain and the chemical imbalances involved in the neurotransmitters. Actually, it is a combination of all the above, just to make life more complicated and no main ADHD cause has ever been identified.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has done research on diet and it seems that certain dietary supplements can be a help in lessening the symptoms of ADHD. Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin B, plus fewer processed foods all seems to help although the NIH estimate that only about 5% of ADHD children are actually helped by diet and they seem to fall into the food allergy category. One study actually showed that certain dietary supplements were just as effective as Ritalin in easing ADHD symptoms. Diet cannot therefore be a main ADHD cause but it can and does affect a child and can exacerbate or alleviate symptoms. Too much sugar can cause a ‘crash’ and that can lead to temper tantrums or irritability and restlessness.

Recent research shows that the main ADHD cause is more than likely to be an imbalance in the neurotransmitters such as dopamine which are closely connected to the feelings of reward and motivation. This research was carried out at the Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island and it is certainly very interesting to note that this could be the reason why ADHD children can never finish a task as they cannot see the long term benefits or rewards. Yet,when they are involved in computer games or video games, they do much better as the rewards are evident and immediate. There are lessons here for both parents and teachers in that they can try to make tasks at home and at school much more appealing and rewarding. It may be as simple as breaking down tasks into smaller units. It could also explain why ADHD kids are more likely to suffer from being overweight and also drug abuse as these are directly linked to reward and motivation.

There are other ways in which a child can be calmed and helped to focus without subjecting him or her to very doubtful amphetamine like drugs which are losing credibility as the major health authorities are worried about the long term effects and the paucity of complementary treatments for ADHD. That is why ADHD homeopathic remedies rarely get enough attention and yet they can help a ADHD child to remain calm and to suffer less from fidgeting. Looking at these remedies and trying to find a reputable supplier can be quite a task. If the facility is FDA approved, the purity of the ingredients are guaranteed and the manufacture is under the supervision of qualified homeopaths, then there is an excellent chance that you can find a product of superior quality.

Discover what is the main ADHD cause . Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/is-diet-a-main-adhd-cause-recent-research-on-other-causes-1493490.html

Just imagine if there was one main ADHD cause! That would make life simpler if it were due to genetic factors, or diet, or the environment or conditions during pregnancy. It could have something to do with the structure of the brain and the chemical imbalances involved in the neurotransmitters. Actually, it is a combination of all the above, just to make life more complicated and no main ADHD cause has ever been identified.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has done research on diet and it seems that certain dietary supplements can be a help in lessening the symptoms of ADHD. Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin B, plus fewer processed foods all seems to help although the NIH estimate that only about 5% of ADHD children are actually helped by diet and they seem to fall into the food allergy category. One study actually showed that certain dietary supplements were just as effective as Ritalin in easing ADHD symptoms. Diet cannot therefore be a main ADHD cause but it can and does affect a child and can exacerbate or alleviate symptoms. Too much sugar can cause a ‘crash’ and that can lead to temper tantrums or irritability and restlessness.

Recent research shows that the main ADHD cause is more than likely to be an imbalance in the neurotransmitters such as dopamine which are closely connected to the feelings of reward and motivation. This research was carried out at the Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island and it is certainly very interesting to note that this could be the reason why ADHD children can never finish a task as they cannot see the long term benefits or rewards. Yet,when they are involved in computer games or video games, they do much better as the rewards are evident and immediate. There are lessons here for both parents and teachers in that they can try to make tasks at home and at school much more appealing and rewarding. It may be as simple as breaking down tasks into smaller units. It could also explain why ADHD kids are more likely to suffer from being overweight and also drug abuse as these are directly linked to reward and motivation.

There are other ways in which a child can be calmed and helped to focus without subjecting him or her to very doubtful amphetamine like drugs which are losing credibility as the major health authorities are worried about the long term effects and the paucity of complementary treatments for ADHD. That is why ADHD homeopathic remedies rarely get enough attention and yet they can help a ADHD child to remain calm and to suffer less from fidgeting. Looking at these remedies and trying to find a reputable supplier can be quite a task. If the facility is FDA approved, the purity of the ingredients are guaranteed and the manufacture is under the supervision of qualified homeopaths, then there is an excellent chance that you can find a product of superior quality.

Discover what is the main ADHD cause . Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/is-diet-a-main-adhd-cause-recent-research-on-other-causes-1493498.html

Most parents are worried that the ADHD meds are going to affect their child negatively and have long term risks for their health and ask ‘how can I treat ADHD’. Basically, they are right to be alarmed. Treating ADHD safely has become a controversial issue and parents are right to question everything. While it is true that certain ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity, inattention and lack of focus, can be relieved with amphetamine type drugs in up to 80% of children, there are still doubts about the long term efficacy of these medications. In all, a bizarre lack of accurate information about the clinical trials of these drugs in the long term. Yet the majority of the 2.5 million children being treated for ADHD are on these drugs!

Just look at the short term effects that can ruin a child’s life. A child in the UK was recently prescribed a slow acting methylphenidate drug and while her schoolwork improved, she lost 5% of body weight and was weepy and emotional and could not sleep. All these are fairly typical of the ADHD medication side effects and you begin to wonder what on earth is the point. There must be a less hazardous and less dramatic way of treating ADHD safely.

Many parents are completely unaware of the fact that ADHD homeopathic remedies can and do have beneficial effects on ADHD symptoms without any of the drama of the above story which is typical of quite a number of children to-day. They are unaware of dietary changes, behavior modification and other complementary treatments which can be used in treating ADHD safely.

Parents sometimes are surprised to learn that the ADHD symptoms such as restlessness, impulsivity, tic disorders and temper tantrums can all be calmed and alleviated with the use of homeopathic medicine. There are no side effects and no FDA black box warnings. Children soon become less distracted and begin to focus at school. There are no long term health risks at all and no need to have a heart check up. The risk of depression or anxiety which are the effects of the ADHD conventional medications are non-existent with this type of medicine. Treating ADHD safely is within every parent’s grasp and is a lot more economical than the conventional ADHD medications.

Discover what is the best way of treating ADHD safely . Experts now tell us that child behavior programs combined with a natural treatment for ADHD is by far the most effective ADHD treatment. Robert Locke is a Health enthusiast who specializes in Children’s Health. He has written extensively on ADHD.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/adhd-articles/treating-adhd-safely-a-bizarre-lack-of-reliable-information-1493534.html