While clinical research is still in the investigative phase, there is some evidence that nutritional deficiencies may be related to the symptoms of hyperactivity in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and that addressing these deficiencies with supplements may produce a calming effect on children with ADHD. Specifically, supplementation with the mineral zinc has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents, according to a review published by Croatian medical journal “Acta Med Croatica” in 2009, as has supplementation with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, according to another 2009 study, published in “Journal of Attention Disorders.”
Another nutrient required for good mental health is magnesium. According to research published in “Medical Hypothesis” in 2006, magnesium deficiency has been linked to a host of mental illness symptoms, including agitation, anxiety, irritability, confusion, sleeplessness, and hyperexcitability. According to the study’s authors, some cases of major depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health problems may be remedied with magnesium supplementation.
While they are not essential nutrients needed for health, herbal supplements such as kava kava, valerian, and passionflower, are also sometimes taken for their reported calming effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, however, the evidence supporting the use of these herbs to treat anxiety is not conclusive, and herbal remedies may have dangerous side effects and drug interactions. Kava kava and valerian may affect the liver, for example, and another herb used to treat anxiety, St. John’s Wort, has several known drug interactions. Talk to your doctor before using herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications.
Taking a daily multivitamin/mineral complex can provide most of the key nutrients necessary for proper cognitive and mood functioning, including magnesium, and zinc. You can improve your omega 3 fatty acid status via fish oil or algae supplements. However, eating a healthy, varied diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats can also supply these nutrients.
In summation, while not all mood problems are caused by nutrient deficiencies, certain mental health problems, including depression and ADHD, may be related to nutritional problems which might be remedied by with dietary supplements. Certain herbal supplements may produce a calming effect that may benefit people with anxiety or depression, although the evidence supporting the use of herbs for this purpose is largely anecdotal and certain herbs may carry dangerous side effects. If you suspect you or your child have a nutritional deficiency causing that’s causing mood or attention problems, your doctor may order a blood test and, if necessary, prescribe a supplement to correct this deficiency.
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