A study has shown that medication alone has no detectable
impact on how much children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD) learn in the classroom.
The study, a first of its kind, conducted by Florida
International University (FIU), evaluated 173 children with ADHD and related
behavioural, emotional and learning challenges between the ages of seven and 12
and found that children learned the same amount whether they were taking
medication or the placebo.
While medication did not improve learning, the study showed
that medication helped children complete more seatwork, improved classroom
behaviour, and slightly improved test scores but not enough to boost most
children’s grades.
“Medicating our children doesn’t solve the problem — it only
takes away the symptoms temporarily. Instead, families should focus on
behavioural interventions first and add medication only if needed,” said
Pelham, an ADHD research and treatment pioneer.
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders
affecting around two to 16 percent of school-aged children, according to the
South African Journal of Psychiatry. It is estimated that at least 20% to 60% of symptoms persist into adulthood.
Compared to their peers, children with ADHD exhibit more
off-task classroom behaviour, receive lower grades, and obtain lower scores on
tests. They are also more likely to receive special education services, be
retained for a grade or drop out before graduating.
Health and wellness expert Vanessa Ascencao said in addition
to behavioural therapy, a healthy nutritious diet and high-quality supplements
may play an important role in managing ADHD symptoms in young children,
adolescents and adults, and may provide an integrative approach.
Studies show that the gut microbiome plays an important role
in the gut-brain axis and that dysbiosis may contribute to several
neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ADS) and ADHD.
Exposure to heavy metals is also one of the most reported environmental factors
implicated in ADHD.
“Eliminate foods such as wheat, dairy and gluten. Eat a
prebiotic-rich diet to improve gut health. Reduce heavy metal neurotoxicity by
increasing intake of fruits and vegetables, eat lots of healthy fats and try
high-quality supplements such as nature-based Marcus Rohrer Spirulina which
contains over 100 nutrients and minerals and naturally occurring iron-rich
water, Spatone,” said Ascencao.
A study has shown that low iron is prevalent in
over 85 percent of children with ADHD. Iron is essential for brain health and
affects the production of dopamine which can influence attention, behaviour and
mood,” added Ascencao.
