Can Gluten Intolerance Contribute to ADHD?
Saturday, December 10, 2011
ADHD, as well as countless other neurological and learning conditions have been linked to food allergies, the major one being gluten sensitivity. While there are other chemical and functional components that lead to the development and diagnoses of ADHD (and all other disorders on the Autism Spectrum) sensitivities to gluten can compound the signs/symptoms of ADHD. It is important to remember that some people who have gluten sensitivities may have been incorrectly diagnosed as having ADHD, and once these food items have been eliminated from their diet, they show no signs of it.
Gluten in particular is inflammatory to the body, and sets off a whole process of inflammation and neuroinflammation that create changes in the chemicals and mediators involved in the chemistry of the brain, which can create changes in how parts of the brain are working. There have been a number of studies that have supported the fact that there is a connection between food allergies, inflammatory bowel diseases and the broad expanse of disorders listed on the autism spectrum, and more studies are being conducted every day.
If your child has signs of ADHD, whether they have been diagnosed or it is just suspected, begin them on an elimination diet, whereby you eliminate food containing gluten, and grains as a whole, and even many dairy items (which are also inflammatory), and stress the importance of eating more fruits, vegetables and lean protein.
If you have questions about nutrition or would like a consultation with one of our chiropractic neurologists, please call our office.
- Dr. Liz McNally
Dr. McNally is a chiropractic neurologist at Portland Chiropractic Neurology in Portland, Maine.
