Natural Alternatives to ADHD Drugs: Zinc
Studies suggest that children with ADHD are more likely to have zinc deficiency. A study published in Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry looked at the effect of zinc supplementation on 9-year-old boys and girls with ADHD. This was a 12-week double-blind treatment with zinc sulfate (150 mg per day) or placebo. Researchers found zinc supplementation superior to placebo in reducing symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and impaired socialization in patients with ADHD. Zinc may be most effective in those diagnosed with a zinc deficiency.
DOSAGE
Give 10 to 15 mg for younger children under age 5.Higher doses such as 50 to 150 mg can be used for older children under the supervision of a doctor.
SAFETY
Too much zinc can cause digestive upset such as diarrhea. It may also suppress immunity at doses beyond 150 mg daily. A few milligrams of copper should be taken along with zinc supplementation.
