Originally published February 7 2006
Adult ADD may soon have a treatment plan that eliminates pharmaceuticals
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Alternative treatment options for adults suffering with attention deficit disorder (ADD) are still being researched and debated, but the move away from drug therapy seems to be gaining acceptance in the conventional medicine community.
When Charles Ryder was finally diagnosed with adult attention-deficit disorder at age 25, his doctor immediately started him on the medication Strattera.
For the first time since childhood, Ryder's focus partially improved.
In his quest for a holistic alternative, Ryder tapped into the burgeoning market on the Internet of largely unproven non-drug treatments for ADD, therapies that range from special diets and supplements to biofeedback and spending time in nature.
''I definitely notice a difference,'' said Ryder, who sees too much of himself in his easily distracted 4-year-old daughter and will likely start her on the Dore program.
However, not only are the long-term effects of medication unknown, but the most common one, methylphenidate (Ritalin), is in the same class as cocaine, morphine and amphetamines, all drugs that carry the potential for abuse.
But now there's no shortage of complimentary or alternative treatment methods that can be used either in conjunction with drugs or on their own.
Chicago social worker Laurie Walsh believes the best core treatment is ''individual and group support, diet, exercise, medication and counseling.
Pros: Many coaches recast ADD as a gift, rather than a disorder, and help clients identify their positive characteristics and strengths.
One company, Play Attention (www.playattention.com), uses an EEG biofeedback-based system (the patented name is ''Edufeedback'') that attempts to form new neural networks.
Cons: The knock against biofeedback has always been that the benefits likely vanish once you unhook yourself from the machine.
Omega-3 fatty acids suppress inflammation and have been shown to be useful in treating adults with depression and bipolar disorder.
Fresh fish oil capsules should taste fresh; if you're experiencing unpleasant burping and foul taste, look for a brand with quality control, like Nordic Naturals.
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