Vitamin D for Kids – Beneficial for Treating ADHD?

Medical researchers have long investigated links between vitamins and minerals and ADHD. This includes studying causes of ADHD and treatment of symptoms. Significant research has shown that there are links between ADHD and deficiencies of iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega 3s. However, more research is being conducted to determine a link between vitamin D deficiency and ADHD. New evidence is slowly coming out which is identifying a link. Because of this, some children’s health experts are recommending vitamin d for kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD.

Reasons to Incorporate a Kid’s Vitamin D Supplement into Your Child’s Diet
While researchers are still uncovering reasons why vitamin D could help children who struggle with ADHD, there are some facts that we do know:

Vitamin D boosts levels of glutathione in the brain. This antioxidant regulates an enzyme called gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase which helps support metabolism and recycling of gluthatione. Antioxidant deficits have been shown to worsen ADHD symptoms. Thus, the vitamin, which can be taken in the form of a kid’s vitamin D supplement can help to keep antioxidant levels in check.

Vitamin D may also play a role in catecholamine synthesis. Catecholamines include the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine which are used to treat ADHD.

Vitamin D boosts the effects of choline acetyltransferase. This is an enzyme that helps produce the neurotransmitting agent acetylcholine which plays an important role in maintaining sustained attention.

As well, the strongest reason to recommend vitamin D for kids with ADHD is the connection between a deficiency of the vitamin and depressive-like symptoms. There are possible connections between ADHD and a particular form of depression called seasonal affective disorders (SAD).

Although currently vitamin D does not have as obvious an effect on ADHD as other vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids, it does have specific neurodevelopmental and neuroregulatory properties which may be beneficial in controlling symptoms of the disorder.

It’s always a good idea to discuss supplementation with your child’s pediatrician. If a kid’s vitamin D supplement is recommended, choose a natural one that delivers the bioavailable active form of vitamin D3.