The Attention Deficit Epidemic

feeds on sugar and low blood sugar can also result in lack of concentration.

There is a strong connection between poor gastro-intestinal function and adverse brain symptoms. Gastro-intestinal tract conditions, such as intestinal permeability, food intolerance, undigested food particles and chemicals, imbalances in gut bacteria and yeast infection, can have a profound negative effect on brain function. The term GAP (gut and psychology) syndrome, has been used to describe this link. Assessing gastro-intestinal function is an important aspect of treating ADHD nutritionally.

Functional Tests

Various tests are useful tools in identifying possible causes and contributing factors to ADHD. The nutritionist may use one or more of the following:

Hair Mineral Analysis – for identifying heavy metal toxicity and nutrient imbalances.
Food Allergy or Food Intolerance Testing.
CDSA – Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis – for identifying if there are any pathogenic bacteria/fungus or organisms are present.

Nutritional treatment has proven very helpful for many children with ADD or ADHD. It has few, if any, side effects and is therefore worth pursuing before considering other more harmful interventions.

Bibliography

Balch, P.A. Balch, J.F. (2000) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. 3rd Ed. New York. Avery Publishing Group. 
Campbell-Mcbride Dr.N. (2007) Gut and Psychology Syndrome. Cambridge: Medinform
Holford, P. (2007) New Optimum Nutrition for the Mind. London: Piatkus
Murray, MT (1996) Encylopedia of nutritional supplements. California:Prima Publishing.
Murray,M & Pizzorno,J (1998) Encylopedia of natural medicine. Revised 2nd ed. California: Prima Publishing.

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