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Writer's pictureP.E.T. South Africa

5 Essential nutrients to calm hyperactivity

Updated: Sep 17, 2021

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD as most parents know it, is a disorder most often seen as the root cause of hyperactive behaviour in children.

Children are constantly on the go and sometimes simply can’t sit still. It can become frustrating to cope with some of your child's behaviours. But remember, just because your child is testing limits and full of energy does not mean that they are suffering from ADHD.


You must consult a medical practitioner before self-diagnosing your child. Doctors diagnose ADHD after a child displays six or more specific symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity regularly for more than six months in at least two settings. A doctor will also consider how your child's behaviour compares with that of other children the same age.


Raising a developing child can be challenging, but there are ways to make life easier. These options, depending on the severity, include behaviour therapy, communication skills courses, supplements, a nutritional diet, and exercise. The diet of a child with hyperactive symptoms should be supplemented with the following:


Primrose and Fish oil

Research suggests that children who display hyperactive symptoms have essential fatty acids deficiency. Your essential fatty acids include Omega-3 and Omega-6 which help maintain a healthy brain. Several studies have shown that supplementation with essential fatty acids can benefit children with learning difficulties. Children who are diagnosed with ADHD not only display overactive behaviour but are also dealing with overactive thoughts.


We highly recommend Sportron's Melotone Syrup and Melotone Junior Chewable Omega Capsules. Both contain the right amount of essential fatty acids and all the other health benefits of fish and fish oil. Both also taste good and are easy to consume.



Magnesium and Calcium

Stress, poor diet, intensive activities can all cause a Magnesium and/or Calcium deficiency in children. Children are growing and a busy body and mind need the right fuel to achieve full potential.


Calcium is essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones. During times of rapid growth, children need more calcium than ever. The body does not produce calcium naturally. Therefore, children benefit from a diet rich in dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables, or bony fish.


Magnesium supports a child through growth spurts. Magnesium soothes muscle cramps and spasms, balances moods, and eases relaxation to ensure a better night's rest.


Irritability, restlessness, frequent meltdowns, brittle nails, muscle tensions, and dental problems can all be signs of either a Magnesium of Calcium deficiency.


Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for a positive mood, cognitive functioning, and working immune system in growing children. While some fun in the sun produces Vitamin D in the body, chances are likely your child with ADHD could require an extra boost. Foods rich in Vitamin D include oily fish, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified foods (cow's milk, orange juice, breakfast cereals).


A Vitamin D supplement could come in handy. We recommend Sportron's Magnetone D and Whizz Kidz Vitamin D3 soft gels for children. Magnetone D is a supplement rich in Vitamin D. Magnesium and Vitamin D work hand-in-hand; with Magnesium playing an important role in determining how much Vitamin D our bodies can make. Magnesium also helps your body to absorb and use minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.


Remember, all children have strengths and weaknesses. Any form of hyperactivity treatment will require a lot of support and patience. But with the right plan in place, there's little to no reason that all children can't achieve their academic and developmental potential.

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” - Albert Einstein

Get in touch via our contact us form should you be interested or have questions about any of the products mentioned above.


 

Please note that the foods and supplements listed above may boost your immune health, but they don’t protect specifically against COVID-19.


Disclaimer: The information contained in this communication is not to be construed as medical advice. Consult a professional on any medical or psychological concerns. The articles and blogs are posted only as opinion or ideas, and are general in nature. The administrator takes no responsibility for any action or outcome a reader may make as a result of reading a post.

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