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What Are the Best Vitamins for ADHD?

Jami Yontz
Jami Yontz

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly referred to as ADHD, causes a person to be inattentive, hyper and impulsive. Physicians and alternative medicine practitioners commonly recommend supplementing a person's diet with minerals and vitamins for ADHD that are effective in decreasing the symptoms, or correcting a nutritional deficiency that may be the cause of the ADHD symptoms. A physician may recommend that a person with ADHD take an Intracellular Vitamin Analysis blood test to determine the vitamins that are lacking in the person's diet. The best nutrients and vitamins for ADHD are Omega 3, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, and protein.

Omega 3 is a fatty acid that a person can only obtain through food sources. Some studies have shown that supplementing the diet of children with ADHD with Omega 3 can help in increase the child’s ability to focus, and also decrease aggressive behavior. While there are dietary supplements available, many people choose to increase their intake of Omega 3 foods, which includes mackerel, albacore tuna, walnuts, strawberries and cauliflower.

Cauliflower contains omega-3 oils and may be beneficial in treating ADHD.
Cauliflower contains omega-3 oils and may be beneficial in treating ADHD.

The most popular and highly recommended vitamins for ADHD are Vitamin B3, B6, and B12. A physician will recommend that a person take the Vitamin B complex, so that a person maintains the correct balance of the various nutrients contained in a B complex. B3 is used in the body’s production of energy through the conversion of carbohydrates. B6 is used by the brain to produce serotonin and norepinephrine chemicals that are responsible for a person’s mood, response to stress, and ability to focus. B12 is involved in how the brain functions, and a deficiency can cause depression, lack of concentration, and mental dullness.

Taking multivitamins may help a person manage ADHD.
Taking multivitamins may help a person manage ADHD.

Other vitamins have a direct impact on sugar levels, which can affect mood and the nervous system. Studies have shown that many people with ADHD lack Vitamin C in their bodies. The vitamin destroys toxins and helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Magnesium calms the nervous system, and it is involved in the production of serotonin. A deficiency can cause a person to be irritable and anxious.

Zinc has been shown to be effective at reducing hyperactivity.
Zinc has been shown to be effective at reducing hyperactivity.

There are also nutrients that control the hyperactive symptoms associated with ADHD. In certain studies, zinc has been effective in treating the hyperactivity symptom of ADHD. Getting enough protein in a person’s diet is one of the most important nutrients to decrease ADHD symptoms. Protein is involved in many important processes in the body, including the proper functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain. By eating the proper amount of protein each day, a person will feel more alert and responsive taking these vitamins for ADHD.

Research suggests that taking omega-3 supplements may help alleviate symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorcer (ADHD).
Research suggests that taking omega-3 supplements may help alleviate symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorcer (ADHD).

While specific vitamins and minerals have exhibited promise in initial research, it is crucial to bear in mind that they cannot serve as a substitute for evidence-based treatments or supplant a comprehensive ADHD testing process. Individuals contemplating the inclusion of vitamin supplements within their ADHD management strategy should engage with healthcare professionals to ensure safety, determine suitable dosages, and address any underlying deficiencies.

Discussion Comments

anon326433

I thought about the spirulina too, but we went with chlorella for the time being. It may be that our children need a gentle daily detox to help ADHD. For supplements, I'm trying to simplify. She's finally old enough to take Vitamin Code Family, but we haven't tried it yet, and I give 1000 mg DHA daily. She needs a good food-based supplement, since she is a picky eater. I had no idea zinc could help with the hyperactivity. We might test out small amounts. Thanks for this site and info!

serenesurface

I've noticed that a great many websites are recommending liquid vitamins rather than the regular capsules or tablets in addition to medical treatments for ADHD. In fact some even claim that it's an alternative treatment. Do liquid vitamins really work better?

They are claiming that liquid vitamins mix into the blood stream much more quickly and are better for that reason. But I'm also getting the sense that it has become a bit commercialized and people are trying make money off of this condition.

I also know that taking too many vitamins can be toxic and dangerous. I wouldn't give my son anything without asking my doctor first but I just want to know more about these liquid vitamins, especially if they are going to help.

ysmina

I remember reading a paper which reported a study where ADHD patients were given flax seed oil and vitamin C. Their condition had improved after taking these supplements. It's not very surprising because doctors already recommend omega 3 and antioxidant vitamins for ADHD. Flax seed oil has omega 3 just like fish, so it can be another option for those who don't want to eat more fish or take fish oil capsules.

I take flax seed for additional omega 3 after menopause. It doesn't have a certain taste, I sprinkle some in my cereal or on my salad. They also have cereals with flax seed but I'm not sure how fresh the flax seed is in those. But organic cereals fortified with vitamins, minerals and omega 3 would be beneficial too I'm sure.

burcidi

I have been taking spirulina supplements for its detox benefits. I also found out that this is a good vitamin for ADHD. It's an aquatic plant that has lots of protein, iron, lutein and some other minerals and vitamins. I think it could be a good addition to ADHD supplements.

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    • Cauliflower contains omega-3 oils and may be beneficial in treating ADHD.
      By: ExQuisine
      Cauliflower contains omega-3 oils and may be beneficial in treating ADHD.
    • Taking multivitamins may help a person manage ADHD.
      By: pixelrobot
      Taking multivitamins may help a person manage ADHD.
    • Zinc has been shown to be effective at reducing hyperactivity.
      By: Laurent Hamels
      Zinc has been shown to be effective at reducing hyperactivity.
    • Research suggests that taking omega-3 supplements may help alleviate symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorcer (ADHD).
      By: maron
      Research suggests that taking omega-3 supplements may help alleviate symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorcer (ADHD).
    • Taking vitamin B complex pills may help those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
      By: milosducati
      Taking vitamin B complex pills may help those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
    • One recommended vitamin for ADHD is Vitamin B6, which is used by the brain to produce serotonin.
      By: snyggg.de
      One recommended vitamin for ADHD is Vitamin B6, which is used by the brain to produce serotonin.