Gluten and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder):

Some studies proved that gluten intolerance has close links with Attention Deficit Disorder.  Gluten intolerance is the most common autoimmune diseases affecting the small intestine. If the sufferer consumes gluten containing foods made with wheat, barley or rye, he/she may experience excessive fatigue, muscular ache, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, cramping or constipation.  A recent study shows that ADD symptoms would become severe, if the child eats gluten containing foods. On the other hand, following a gluten free diet can improve the condition significantly within a short period of time.

 How to use gluten free diet to manage ADD:

ADD children may have trouble in paying attention. They may suffer from memory problems, irritability and problems with concentration. The behavioral symptoms triggered by food can be treated with a gluten free diet. You may not know how to help your child, because it seems that all foods contain gluten. However, there are several gluten free diets that can help your child to improve his condition.

  • You can include flours made from nuts, beans and seeds instead of wheat. Potato flour, corn, flax, millet, rice, soy and sago are good gluten free foods.
  • It is important to read the labels, before using any packed food products. Check whether it is specified gluten free.
  • You need to search a grocery store, where you can find all the products required to prepare gluten free diet.
  • It is worth to start the diet with the foods that you have already prepared in your home, by making some simple modifications. Jam, honey and jellies are free from gluten. You can give them to your child, with the breads made of gluten free grains. 
  • It is important to eliminate all types of processed foods, as they contain additives.
  • Peanut butter can be added into his diet.
  • Potato chips, corn chips, popcorn, peanuts and rice crackers are good alternatives to cookies, cakes and pies.
  • You can give plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to the child. This ensures to give all the essential nutrients to him. Sometimes, a vitamin or mineral supplement may also be necessary for the child, as avoiding gluten containing foods may lead to iron and vitamin deficiency.
  • You can give milk, cheese, cottage cheese, spinach, almonds, walnuts, figs and calcium fortified soy milk. These are good gluten free diets that supply calcium and other important nutrients.