Game-Changing Nutrition Hacks for Taming the ADHD Tiger in Adults and Kiddos

Keep Body Hydrated With Water

Every brain needs to remain hydrated to function properly. Judgment and cognitive function both decrease whenever the brain is dehydrated. This applies to an individual who consumes beverages that dehydrate the body (e.g., coffee and alcohol), as well as if they are not drinking enough water. The body is eighty percent water after all! While an often cited standard is to drink eight glasses of water a day (roughly eight ounces each), this may not apply to everyone. On particularly active days, the body will need more water to replace what it loses through sweat. The best indicator is to drink enough water so urine appears clear. For children, it is important for parents to give them a glass of water regularly. Avoid becoming thirsty, as this is an indicator of dehydration.

Remember To Reach For Healthy Fats

Aside from water, the brain needs healthy fat to function well. In fact, fat makes up approximately sixty percent of the brain and nerves running through the body. This means individuals need to keep them healthy for the body to continue running well. The two most important fats when it comes to this are omega-6s and omega-3s, which make up the brain cell membranes and are an important part of the cell membranes' ability to transport nutrients. This is particularly important for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as there is an increased risk of lower levels of omega-3s among this group. Experts indicate those with these low levels are the ones who would show the most significant improvement in their ADHD symptoms once they begin to get these healthy fats in their diet. Good sources to try are flaxseed, eggs, spinach, yogurt, and fish like salmon and tuna.