The incidence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is around five to seven percent of all schoolchildren worldwide. Symptoms may include lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The brain contains billions of cells that are in need of essential nutrients like vitamin D and magnesium for optimal performance. Any depletion or low levels of essential nutrients will affect brain function and affect children's behavior. Low levels of magnesium and vitamin D have been found in children with ADHD.
This clinical trial was done on sixty-six children with ADHD (6-12 years old) (1). They add supplementation of magnesium and a high dose of vitamin D for two months in addition to methylphenidate (Ritalin). Vitamin D is crucial for the production of serotonin, which is vital for behavioral issues in humans. Magnesium is necessary for more than 300 biological reactions in the human body and energy production (ATP) in the mitochondria.
After two months of supplementation, vitamin D and magnesium caused a significant decrease in behavioral problems, social issues, and anxiety when compared to the children without the supplements but taking the prescription medication methylphenidate.
Effects of Vitamin D and Magnesium in ADHD:
*Decrease Behavioral problems
*Decrease Social Impairments
*Decrease Anxiety
This study clearly demonstrates the necessity of adequate levels of nutrients for optimal brain function.
"In life, you do what you learned (habits),
not what you know (book knowledge)."
Dennis Waitley
Have a great week!
David Rivas, RPh, MSc, CCN
Pharmacist and Clinical Nutritionist/Consultant
References:
(1): Hemamy, M., Heidari-Beni, M., Askari, G., Karahmadi, M., & Maracy, M. (2020). Effect of Vitamin D and magnesium supplementation on behavior problems in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 11.
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