Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment: Plate vs. Pill

Abstract

Abstract

For this project, we will outline a pending article for publication that explores the treatment options of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and answers the following question: In school age children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, what is the effect of nutritional modification combined with medication on hyperactivity and increased concentration compared with medical therapy alone? Information was collected using an internet search of the following databases: Proquest, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Medline with Full Text, Fulltext Journal from Ovid and Cochrane Library. Treatment options researched include medical therapy, including psychostimulants, restriction diets, free fatty acid supplementation, cognitive behavioral therapy, neurofeedback, and counseling. After review of 25 articles, it is concluded that medication therapy continues to be the most effective treatment in ADHD in school age children and the addition of nutritional modification shows little to no difference in treatment efficacy. Gaps in current research reveal a need for longitudinal studies regarding successful treatment in children.

Keywords: ADHD, ADHD treatment, ADHD diet therapy, ADHD drug therapy, ADHD nutrition