Possible Causes of ADD/ADHD

Recreational Activities have a major impact on brain chemistry
The types of videos watched, or the type of music listened to are just two examples of stimuli that have the ability to shape or affect mood, personality and behavior. Research has started to find connections between children playing violent video games, followed by measurable aggressive behavior. The increase in dopamine production in the brain during video game play is no different than smoking marijuana, or a person being injected with amphetamines, or the ADD drug Ritalin. The change in brain chemistry is the first hard evidence that video game playing is addictive, like a dose of speed. Accordingly, these kids are addicted to raised dopamine levels, and can't concentrate on anything without them.

Studies have attributed similar effects on the brain when listening to music, particularly in regard to learning and studying. Classical music, with an average 50-70 beats per minute was optimal for learning. Interestingly, it also provided health benefits such as lower blood pressure, lower muscle tension, and a slower pulse rate. In every one of several human and animal studies done of having subjects listen to Mozart versus Hard Rock, the effects of classical music were in comparison to the control group consistently of a calming, soothing nature, while the Hard Rock group invariably lead to an aggressive, or even violent behavior.

It is not difficult to understand how the influence of the hypnotic rhythm and beat of Heavy Metal Rock music induces a drug-like effect that removes inhibitions, morals, and incites rebellion and aberrations of conduct.

Statistics are even more convincing: In different experiments, mice listening to classical music ran a maze from 25% to 70% faster than those who were not listening to any music. "Modern" music (Punk, Rock, Rap...) had them run the maze anywhere from 20% to 300% slower! Another study showed that listening to the classical music of Mozart can improve an IQ score by up to 13 points, while "Rock and Roll" has a reverse effect.

• Vision or Hearing problems in children -
when undetected - may sometimes lead to an inaccurate diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder.

• Hyperthyroid or Hypothyroid problems can both trigger a number of attention-disruptive symptoms -
Serum levels may, or may not be within a normal lab range, however false positives or false negatives with thyroid panels are not uncommon. While elevated / irregular pulse or nervousness are commonly experienced with hyperthyroid functions, apathy, fatigue and trouble concentrating are some symptoms encountered with hypothyroid functions. Spinal alignment problems at T4-T6 can also trigger similar symptoms. Supplements such as PABA, magnesium, or manganese (as individually indicated) will generally help with mild hyperthyroid activity, while iodine and/or Vitamin B6 may be helpful with very mild hypothyroid activity. Exposure to bromine-based fire retardants used in carpets, mattresses, upholstery, furniture and some electronic equipment have also become suspect for causing a number of medical conditions, including hypothyroidism. Animal research has linked behavioral problems, as well as neurodevelopmental and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders to bromides. The European Union has already banned some   PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) compounds for these reasons. (see also Acu-Cell "Bromine").

• Food Intolerances or Allergies are high on the list of offenders to provoke ADD/ADHD or other   behavioral symptoms and problems -
While milk, eggs, nuts, shellfish, wheat and soy products are   common triggers for people with food sensitivities or allergies, simple sugar(s) have more of an   effect on mood and hyperactivity than many other dietary factors, although some "experts" on ADD or ADHD continue to challenge or dispute that fact. (see also Acu-Cell "Sugar & Glycemic Index"). Additional problem sources to consider include pets, mold, artificial food coloring and preservatives, artificial sweeteners (aspartame), dust mites, caffeine, and tobacco smoke.

• Calcium and/or Magnesium deficiencies are very common causes of ADD and ADHD -
Since they are always accompanied by light and/or restless sleep, along with daytime sleepiness, they are easy to spot and easily remedied through supplementation or a change in diet..

• High Copper and low Sulfur - with or without elevated Aluminum - represent one of the most common causes of ADD/ADHD -
Symptoms typically include a "foggy" mind, lack of concentration, and poor memory. This particular chemical pattern is as common with kids as it is with adults, and requires not only supplementation of copper antagonists (molybdenum, chromium, sulfur (MSM), or   Vitamin C - as individually indicated), but also avoidance of beverage or food sources high in copper and aluminum. Copper sources include cocoa / chocolate products, coffee, tea, soy products, liver, nuts, seeds, shellfish, wheat germ, while aluminum sources include drinks packaged in aluminum-lined containers (tetra packs) and certain (antacid / stomach) remedies.

• Iron deficiency may be suspect with some forms of ADHD -
In a study led by Dr. Eric Konofal, 84% of children diagnosed with ADHD were found to have abnormally low levels of ferritin (an iron storage protein), compared to 18% of children without ADHD. Low iron levels in the brain are also known to alter dopamine activity, which is involved in controlling movement, and there is a link between iron deficiency in infants, and slower brain development and poorer school performance later in childhood.

• Tyrosine -
This is an amino acid that the body uses to synthesize dopamine and norepinephrine, the two neurotransmitters believed to be involved in ADHD. Some studies have shown that children with ADD may have lower levels of tyrosine, which can be increased through supplemental or dietary sources.   L-Tyrosine supplementation is contraindicated when on certain medications, or with specific medical problems, so a consultation with a practitioner is important for proper evaluation.

Source of article - www.acu-cell.com/dis-add.html (ACU-CELL DISORDERS)

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