What Are the Best Vitamins for Kids with ADHD?

One of the most talked about childhood conditions is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This makes sense since the number of children being diagnosed with the condition is growing rapidly. In fact, nearly one in five high school age boys in the United States and over ten percent of all school age children have received a diagnosis of ADHD, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While there are a variety of prescription medications to treat the condition, many parents are choosing to try more natural treatment options such as incorporating vitamins for kids into their diet.

There is growing evidence that vitamins for kids can reduce symptoms of ADHD. The following are some of the primary nutrients that have been studied by researchers and have shown promise in helping children battling symptoms of this challenging condition.

Zinc
This important mineral has a calming effect on the body, and it helps support a healthy immune system. Holistic doctors who evaluate children for ADHD often look at kids’ nailbeds to determine if they are deficient in zinc. Many picky eaters are deficient, and this is why it’s a good idea to supplement with one of the best vitamins for kids.

Magnesium
This is another important mineral which has the ability to relax nerves and relieve tension. A deficiency in magnesium can cause depression and headaches which are both common in children with ADHD. Most formulas of vitamins for kids supply the daily requirement for magnesium.

B6
The B vitamins are vital for brain health. Interestingly, many children diagnosed with ADHD are deficient in these essential nutrients.

B12
B12 is a vitamin that has been shown to increase the ability to concentrate and focus. Many parents who give their children with ADHD B12 vitamins for kids find that it helps with speech and mood/behavior. This is because the vitamin helps to regulate brain neurotransmitters. B6 and B12 are both found in multi-vitamin formulas for kids.

Probiotics
Some health experts suggest that ADHD is partially caused by a yeast overgrowth in the body. Thus, probiotics can be used to fight off yeast. At the very least, probiotics are helpful for intestinal and dental health. Some multi-vitamin formulas such as Animal Parade Gold Multi Children’s Chewable from Nature’s Plus includes probiotics which makes giving probiotics to a child convenient and easy.