Omega-3 Rich Foods to Help ADHD

Omega-3 Rich Foods to Help ADHD

Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in naturally preventing and treatment of ADHD symptoms. A lot of studies have shown that an increase in the intake of foods containing omega-3 fatty acids or Omega-3 supplements help to reduce the incidence of ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, attention disorders, improved attention, and visual learning.

Omega-3 fats are essential for our body; the link between omega-3 fatty acids and ADHD can boil down to the fact that omega-3 fatty acids help to produce the required dopamine in the body. Dopamine is a mood elevator and it helps to control our emotions and motivates us to work. An increase in dopamine levels helps to improve concentration and reduce the negative symptoms associated with ADHD. Here is a list of four foods high in omega-3 fatty acids that help naturally treat ADHD:

Flax seeds
These seeds, both the small brown and yellow ones, are a great vegetarian source of omega-3 fatty acids. They can be taken as whole seeds or as flaxseed powder. They are also milled to make oil. Add the powdered seeds to your cereal or bread, or soups and gravies. Take caution while consuming flaxseed, as higher doses may cause abdominal pain or problems with bowel movement. It can cause constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. Make sure you know how much flax seeds are good for you. Try to balance the intake to take advantage of the benefits without and adverse benefits to your health.

Walnuts
Walnuts are the only tree nuts that are a fantastic source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 essential fatty acid. A one-ounce serving of walnuts provides up to 2.5 grams of ALA. Have unsalted walnuts, as they are not loaded with added chemicals or salts to enhance the taste. Add walnuts to bread and puddings or porridges. Children may not like the walnuts because of their bitter taste. You can add them to brownies and muffins. Powder the walnuts and combine it with their foods. Avoid feeding large pieces of walnuts to young kids as they can choke on them.

Chia seeds
Chia seeds besides being a great source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids are also high in fiber and protein. Add these seeds to your granola, salads, or smoothies; mix them with your milkshake or yogurt. You can consume chia seeds with water as well. They are available in most health food stores and online too. In recent times, the consumption of chia seeds has increased, as more people are getting aware of its health benefits. They prove to be natural treatments for ADHD.

Fish like mackerel, sardines, and salmon
These fish are great to taste and children may like to include varieties of fish. Sardines are great to add to sandwiches and as a snack. Mackerel can be had for breakfast too. Trout is another variety of fish loaded with omega-3 fatty acids.

Flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are very easy to carry around, so ensure you keep either of these with you all the time to get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Besides the above foods shrimp, seaweed and bass are a few of the other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Add these foods along with your medication as a natural treatment to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and make yourself feel good.