ADHD-anyone tried TCM? Naturopathy?

My child has been diagnosed with ADHD. I would rather leave the medication route as a last option. Has anyone found success with any alternative therapies?

We are obviously making changes around the house in terms of scheduling, reward system, praise etc but am hoping to supplement/complement with effective alternative medicine.

My son has taken fish oil for years.

Any feedback appreciated!

Hi Blitzing,


I had ADHD as a child and was so bad I was put on Ritalin at 2 years old!!!


Thankfully it did not sit well with my mother and she put me on the Feingold Diet.


Look up Feingold.org for more info.


That was 34 years ago but I think it's every bit as relevant and effective today!


She said it caused a huge improvement in my behavior and I only needed a small amount of tutoring when I reached High School to achieve good grades.


The other thing she did was channel me into sport so that I was really tired for bed as insomnia was a big problem (and still can be at times, depending on my diet). I also think I would have benefited from probiotics. I have read studies that suggest that it can have a very positive result. If you google ADHD and probiotics you will see all the research articles on it. I have a vitamin store if you need any supplements. I can order in any products you may need.

Also google ADHD and vitamin D you should find the new study evidence.

Blitzing,


How was your child DX ed? do you have a pediatrician you can recommend? What type of ADHD does your child have ? My son was DX 4 years ago, first in Asia, and confirmed in US. Actually, the diagnosis is not easy to make. I too tried to manage his ADHD without med for 2 years. Diet, Fish oil, routines, rewards, cognitive therapies, PT, and so on. My son has ADHD-innattentive. The reality for us was that Ritalin was the only thing that made a noticeable change for school. We use the lowest dose, once a day only, no weekends, or school holidays. It really helps him, it was hours of crying and head banging for homework and now homework is "normal" , not fun but not torture. It helps him focus, and then he is proud of having been able to accomplish the same as his classmates. Many parents say "i wish I had started sooner". I waited two years to try all other therapies, I do not regret it because I was and still am terrified of medication. Meds have important sides effects, like appetite suppression, which is an issue with growing boys. But all in all, putting all the positive with the negatives, and considering how my son reacted to alternatives, it is really not a choice for us. Good luck in your journey.

@$*@, the EDIT function does not work. I meant my child choose to cry and bang his own head in frustration about homework, for not native speakers it could be unclear. anyhow, I am struggling to find a good doctor here that understand ADHD management. I used a pediatric psychiatrist in the US, she was excellent, even if pediatricians are able to prescribe, it think pediatric psychiatrists are much better trained in the benefits and risks for each particular kid depending on family background.