Ever wondered if alternative treatments such as vitamins and supplements can help with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms?
There are things you should know before you try any so-called remedy.
Some treatments are safe, affordable, and easy to get, but there might not be proof that they work. And none of these options are meant to replace proven ADHD treatments.
Some "natural" or alternative treatments might be unsafe, too. Certain products can mix dangerously with prescription medicines. And don't assume that vitamins or supplements are safe just because they're labeled as "natural." Most don't have to be approved by the FDA before they are sold.
Talk to your doctor about any alternative treatment before trying it. Here’s what we know about certain supplements.
Can Zinc Help With ADHD Symptoms?
Some studies suggest that children with ADHD may have lower levels of zinc in their body. Scientists say kids with ADHD who took zinc supplements with traditional ADHD treatment had an improvement in their symptoms.
Several studies have found that zinc supplements lead to lower hyperactivity and impulsivity in children with ADHD. The same research, though, reports no change in inattentiveness, which is another key symptom of ADHD. But a 2005 study in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology did show a link between zinc levels and teacher- and parent-rated inattention in children.
Foods high in zinc include oysters as well as other seafood, red meat, poultry, dairy products, beans, nuts, whole grains, and fortified cereals.
Can Fish Oil Help With ADHD?
There is some evidence that fish oil can help improve ADHD symptoms. It contains omega-3 fatty acids. Some findings suggest that fish oil supplements may improve the mental skills of children with the disorder who are 8-12 years old. For instance, it may help improve a child's ability to organize activities.
One study used a specific supplement of fish oil and evening primrose oil. The results showed that children with ADHD aged 7-12 years were less hyperactive, paid more attention, thought more clearly, and had better overall behavior.
Fish high in omega-3s include salmon, albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, trout, and sardines.
Does St. John's Wort Help ADHD?
This common herbal supplement might affect brain chemicals. It's used to treat depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. But studies don't recommend using it to treat ADHD. Research shows that St. John's wort has no effect on the symptoms of ADHD.
What Are the Best Natural Supplements for ADHD?
There's some evidence that certain natural supplements might help. A combo of American ginseng and ginkgo leaf improved ADHD symptoms in children aged 3-17 in one study. More research is needed to confirm the finding, though.
The natural hormone melatonin might also help children with the disorder who take certain ADHD medications. Researchers say it improved sleep problems in these children. But melatonin doesn't seem to improve ADHD symptoms.
Natural supplements like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and inositol aren't proven to help with symptoms, and experts don't know if they're safe.
Some people think ADHD symptoms happen or get worse because of a lack of something in their diets. But the jury is still out on whether any dietary supplements can affect ADHD symptoms.
Some studies suggest that children with ADHD might not have enough iron. One theory is that iron supplements may improve symptoms of the disorder, but that hasn’t been proven.
Check with your doctor before you give your child any supplement. Taking too much iron, for instance, can be toxic and even deadly.
Also, check with the doctor before you use any natural supplement. That includes megadoses of vitamins or minerals. There's a chance they could do more harm than good, and they may cause problems with prescribed medications.
Takeaways
It may be tempting to try "natural" fixes for ADHD, but none of these should replace proven treatments, and some can be dangerous if taken with prescription medications. Studies hint that zinc may curb hyperactivity and impulsivity, and fish oil might help school-aged kids stay more organized and improve their behavior. But neither has been shown to improve the main attention issues. Other remedies like St. John’s wort, GABA, inositol, or iron lack strong evidence. Before starting any vitamin or supplement — no matter how harmless it sounds — be sure to check in with your doctor to stay safe and keep your ADHD treatment on track.
Supplements for ADHD FAQs
What are the best supplements for hyperactivity in children?
Fish oil supplements, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to improve symptoms of hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Vitamin D and magnesium supplements may also be calming for some children with ADHD.
How do multivitamins support ADHD management?
Multivitamin supplements may help children with ADHD by filling the gap in certain vitamin deficiencies. A 2022 study found that 54% of children with ADHD showed improved symptoms when taking a multivitamin supplement, compared to 18% in the placebo group.
Are natural ADHD supplements safe compared to medication?
Dietary supplements are not regulated like medications, nor are they studied as thoroughly for conditions like ADHD. It's best to talk to your doctor or a dietitian about how supplements may help with your established treatment plan.
