Kids With ADHD Can Improve Academics With Exercise

ADHD pills like Ritalin and Adderall are not the only treatment needed for kids with ADHD, exercise and good nutrition also play a vital role.

Adderall drug helps a kid improve focus and impulse control which kids with ADHD lack. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD is found in children where they face problems paying attention, being unable to control their behavior or even act without thinking of the consequences.

These drugs also pose a risk to the growth of a child's brain. Although ADHD pills might help in focus, the effect differs from child to child. According to eMedTV ADHD Health Channel, there are some side effects such as increased heart rate, stomach ache, and loss of appetite, weight loss and emotional changes. Medication is not the only treatment for ADHD.

According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics, conducted by the experts from Michigan State University, one session of exercise can help kids with ADHD focus better.

"This provides some very early evidence that exercise might be a tool in our nonpharmaceutical treatment of ADHD," said Matthew Pontifex, MSU assistant professor of kinesiology, and lead researcher. "Maybe our first course of action that we would recommend to developmental psychologists would be to increase children's physical activity."

While focusing on exercise being an essential part in helping kids with ADHD, right amount of sleep also helps in vast improvement in the symptoms of ADHD. Many kids have difficulty getting sleep but sometimes by stopping stimulant medication or reducing the dosage, one can help the kids get sleep.

Parents need to ensure a set rule is followed with a regular bedtime, reduce physical activity during evening hours and avoid having any electronic gadgets or distractions that keep kids from getting sleep.

Focusing on nutritional food for the kids is also very essential. Foods containing protein and complex carbohydrates for each meal can help a child feel more alert and attentive and decrease hyperactivity.

Due to ADHD, since a kid can be less attentive, he or she is likely to get hurt. With all the precautions taken and the right medication, parents can help a child get through this.