Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a serious condition that may create several issues both in children and adults. It can have a profound impact in all areas of life of a patient affected, and more than often, traditional medications are associated with their own serious problems. Vyvanse and Adderall may cause a broad range of side effects, including a serious risk of addiction. In this article, we will provide you with some useful tips and alternative methods to help you cope with ADHD, manage your symptoms, and improve the quality of your life.
Avoid allergens and food colorings
According to some recent studies, ADHD symptoms may become worse when a child eats some allergens or common food colorings and preservatives. Many of these additives can be found in children’s medications, soft drinks, ice cream, candy, cereal, granola bars, and yogurt. In particular, you should avoid sodium benzoate, BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), and some yellow and red colorings. Also, you should stay clear from foods containing allergens such as salicylates, including chili powder, grapes, tomatoes, berries, eggs, milks, and chocolate. Salicylates are the main ingredient of some pain medications such as aspirin.
Live a more organized life
ADHD brings chaos in the life of patients affected, and chaos itself worsens the condition. The more you are able to live an ordered, neat life, the lesser you will feel the effects of ADHD. Start organizing your room, house, workplace, and ultimately your life. Categorize your objects, throwing away everything you don’t need. Take notes about what you’re supposed to do during your day, week, or month. Take the habit of writing lists and using day planners to maintain an organized life with regular routines.
Trying alternative medications
Although you should always talk with your doctor before changing your treatment, there are other medication options available you might want to consider. Modafinil is one of them, for example, and although this drug was never approved by FDA for this specific use, it has been successfully tested as an off-label treatment by many patients. Other than being much more affordable, it is also devoid of many of the terrible side effects associated with traditional medications. Once again, ask your doctor about it first, and only take it in consideration after a thorough discussion with a specialist.
Relax yourself whenever you can
Hectic and frenetic lives will only make ADHD symptoms worse. You need to take your time doing things, and live a more relaxed life to successfully deal with this disorder. Enjoy a hot bath once you’re back from work, spend more time outside so you can be exposed to outdoors and green space, or take some yoga or meditation class. Relaxing is important to center yourself once in a while, and will help you reduce the anxiety and hyperactivity.