A Focus on ADD and ADHD Medications
So many suffer from ADD and ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and are on medications to manage symptoms and unwarranted behaviors. Unfortunately these medications can create adverse reactions, and more importantly, they can deplete us of many vital nutrients responsible for normal, healthy functioning.
ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed childhood psychiatric condition in America. The core symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These behaviors are so persistent in people with ADHD that they interfere with everyday life. Generally these symptoms appear before the age of 7 years and cause significant functional problems at home, in school, and in various social settings. One to two thirds of all children with ADHD continue to exhibit these symptoms into adult life.
Like most complex neurobehavioral disorders, the cause of ADHD is unknown, but genetics seem to play a role. Other factors such as environmental and food sensitivities, poor nutrition during infancy, poor gut health, heavy metal toxicities, fatty acid and amino acid imbalances, and sensitivity to food additives and sugar have all been linked to this disorder. ADHD is thought to originate from abnormally low levels of dopamine (a neurotransmitter involved with mental and emotional functioning) and noradrenaline in the region of the brain responsible for self-regulation. When these functions are impaired, people struggle to stay focused, complete tasks, perceive time, and curb inappropriate behavior. This results in poor work or school performance and difficulty maintaining appropriate relationships, all of which can decrease quality of life.
Globally, the use of ADHD medications rose 300% from 1993 – 2000. ADHD is not a Ritalin or Adderall deficiency, yet the use of these drugs is skyrocketing. The list of medications and combinations used to manage this condition has grown to frightening proportions. One in ten American children are on stimulant medications. Antipsychotic medications like Risperdal, anti-seizure medications like Trileptal, and anti-depressants like Prozac are all prescribed in addition to stimulant medications like Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall.
Studies suggest that vitamin and mineral supplements can reduce antisocial behavior in children. Micronutrients and fatty acids also play a role in improving learning and behavioral problems. These nutrients are also vital for our bodies for growth and sustaining life. They provide energy to cells and play important roles in the makeup of cellular structures, such as proteins. Nearly all medications, including OTC remedies, deplete the body of one or more of its vital nutrients. At the cellular level medications can cause nutritional deficiencies in many ways: they can modify your behavior, inhibit nutrient absorption, flush out nutrients through increase in urination, or use up your nutrients faster by amping up metabolism. ADHD medications are no different. Adderall or Vyvanse may suppress appetite, which in turn reduces food and nutrient intake. On the other hand, other medications like neuroleptics and antidepressants may increase cravings for unhealthier foods that put more of a metabolic burden on your body.
Many ADHD patients are already predisposed to lower levels of important nutrients responsible for normal behavior and focus. The following are nutrient depletions often seen with ADHD and related medications:
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Adequate amounts are required for normal brain development and are essential for making brain chemicals including serotonin (the feel good neurotransmitter), dopamine ( the neurotransmitter for reward, attention, and motivation), and norepinephrine (the neurotransmitter that can affect attention).
Vitamin B12 & Folate (Cobalamin): Low levels are associated with loss of appetite and depression. These are also key nutrients in methylation, one of the most important processes in your body and brain for optimal energy and nervous system function.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Low levels are associated with poor appetite, depressed immune system, and anemia.
Vitamin D: This vitamin plays an important role in healthy brain development and function.
Amino acids: Phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan are used to make the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Tryptophan is another critical amino acid needed to make serotonin and melatonin (hormone for sleep).
Essential Fatty Acids: Since the body cannot make essential fatty acids (EFA), they must be provided in the diet. There are two major types: omega 3 FAs are found in cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and herring. Omega 6 FAs are commonly found in cooking oils like sunflower, corn, soybean, and safflower. Omega 3 FAs are highly concentrated in the brain and they play a vital role in cognitive and behavioral function. Specific enzymes convert EFAs into other substances called long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). PUFAs as well as EPA (eicopentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) are also essential for normal brain function. Research has shown that people with ADHD have difficulty converting EFAs to PUFAs and may be deficient in both of these substances.
Iron: Iron is needed for making Dopamine. Low levels of iron have been associated with ADHD symptoms.
Zinc: Low levels of zinc are associated with lowered immunity and ADHD symptoms since zinc regulates the activity of neurotransmitters, fatty acids, and melatonin, all of which are related to the biology of behavior. Low zinc levels are also associated with poor heavy metal detoxification, a potential cause of behavioral issues.
CoQ10: This vital molecule plays a key role in energy production, and it serves as an antioxidant protecting your body and brain from free radical damage. Low levels can cause mental fatigue, brain fog, memory lapses, depression, and irritability.
Magnesium: Magnesium is a major mineral in the body, responsible for over 300 biochemical reactions including neurotransmitter, enzyme, and hormonal activity, all of which can have a major impact on mood and brain function.
Melatonin: This hormone is necessary for regulating your wake and sleep cycles. Many psychiatric medications deplete melatonin, which interferes with restorative sleep and is thus disruptive for normal brain functioning.
Unfortunately, the medications that are available to help you manage ADHD symptoms can deplete you of the vital nutrients that help restore and balance the core neurotransmitters responsible for normal brain functioning. Furthermore, these medications can lead to unwanted side effects and declining health. If you or someone you know are on these medications, you can avoid side effects and possibly control or manage ADHD symptoms by restoring the missing nutrients.
If you are interested in knowing more about how to restore these nutritional deficiencies, please call TLC Medical Centre Pharmacy at 803.648.7800 to make an appointment. Micronutrient testing can accurately assess your deficiencies, and we can support you where you are with the medications you are on to help you become more balanced and less likely to experience future issues with your medications.
