What is The Role of Micronutrients and ADHD in Children and Adults
Scientists have demonstrated that a large proportion of children and adults have various micronutrient deficiencies. Since micronutrients are essential to proper brain development and neurotransmitter production, researchers have suggested that deficiencies may play a role in developing ADHD symptoms. Those with ADHD may have lower levels of specific vitamins, like vitamin D, and minerals, like iron.
Nutrient Deficiencies and ADHD
There are a number of nutrient deficiencies that appear to be more common in people with ADHD.
Vitamin D: 78.4% of children with ADHD are deficient in vitamin D compared to 48% of children without ADHD.
Iron: The prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia is up to 8 times higher in women with ADHD than those without it.
Omega 3's: Children with ADHD are more likely to be deficient in omega 3's than children without ADHD.
Zinc: is involved in regulating neurotransmitters and is implicated in affecting learning, memory, emotion, and mood.
Magnesium: has a calming effect on the brain, which may help support focus and attention.
Vitamin B6 deficiency has been found in many patients with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder.
An anti-inflammatory diet is associated with a reduced symptoms of ADHD. Likewise, children who consume higher amounts of sugar, candy, and soda are at an increased risk of worsening symptoms of ADHD compared to children who consume more fruit, vegetables, pasta, rice, and fatty fish. This data suggests that food choices, sensitivities, and nutrient deficiencies may all play a role in ADHD pathophysiology.
Food and Environmental Sensitivities
People with ADHD are more likely to experience adverse reactions to food dye than people without ADHD and have an increased risk of food allergies and sensitivities compared to controls. Some studies suggest an improvement in symptoms when allergenic foods are removed from people with ADHD diets. Mold and other environmental factors could also make symptoms worse. Because sensitivities to foods and food additives can affect behavior, screening for immune reactions against specific items may be an important aspect of testing. Elevated antibody responses on these panels indicate the need for an elimination-rechallenge diet. There are several types of panels you may consider ordering:
A food additives test measures IgA and IgG-type immune reactions against food dyes, preservatives, emulsifiers, and sugars commonly added to foods.
Similar panels measuring IgA and IgG-immune reactions against specific foods can identify non-allergic food sensitivities that may contribute to leaky gut and brain.
Food allergen panels measure IgE-mediated immune reactions against food proteins to identify true food allergies.
Heavy Metal Testing in ADHD
Exposure to heavy metals can be identified through blood, urine, and hair testing. Because even low levels of certain heavy metals may interfere with neurological function, very low-to-no levels of metals are desired in the body. Heavy metals, like lead or mercury, when present in excess in the blood, can interfere with how the brain sends signals and may worsen ADHD symptoms. Even low levels of lead — which has been extensively researched with regard to ADHD — can impact neural development. Functional tests can screen for up to 20 of the most common heavy metals.
Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone imbalances have been shown to affect concentration, impulsivity, and inattention symptoms in ADHD patients.One study found that boys with ADHD were far more likely to have higher sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels and lower DHEA levels than their peers. Functional tests can look for 13 sex hormones and related biomarkers.
An organic acid test (OAT) is a urine test that measures the metabolic byproducts of biochemical pathways in the body. This test can be a useful screening tool; results can be used to obtain information regarding the nutrient status of vitamins, amino acids, and other essential nutrients; mitochondrial efficiency and energy production; detoxification; neurotransmitter metabolism; and intestinal dysbiosis. Based on the provider's approach, supportive measures may be suggested based on these results, or the provider may suggest additional testing specific to neurotransmitters, nutrient testing, and gastrointestinal assessment.
Gut Analysis and Comprehensive Stool Test
Through the gut-brain connection, the health of a child's microbiome can impact neurocognitive function. An imbalanced gut microflora may be associated with neurotransmitter imbalances, which can be seen in ADHD. Intestinal inflammation, maldigestion, and dysbiosis may contribute to a leaky gut, interfere with adequate nutrient absorption, disrupt healthy neurotransmitter production, and lead to neuroinflammation. Because of this, a comprehensive assessment of gut health and function with a stool test is often considered in patients with ADHD. The following table summarizes key biomarkers and what they may indicate when elevated
Imbalances in the neurotransmitters GABA, dopamine, and glutamate may be associated with hyperactivity and ADHD. Poor gut health can affect neurotransmitter status because most neurotransmitters are synthesized in the gut, a process dependent on a healthy gut microbiome. A comprehensive neurotransmitter profile may benefit patients with abnormal OAT and/or stool test results, or those with gastrointestinal symptoms, to
