Your Natural Alternatives

ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER
and

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) although not the same, are very similar. Generally, ADD and ADHD fall under a group of behavioral problems that was once termed 'hyperactivity" which involves impulsive behavior and the inability to remain focused on tasks.
Children mostly suffer from ADHD, while adults may grow out of the fidgety-ness of hyperactivity. However, many adults may continue to experience the inability to remain focused (ADD).
The inability to concentrate or focus is just as alarming and frustrating to an adult as it is to a child and brings with it many confusing issues for the individual and those with whom they interact..
ADD and ADHD have both been treated with chemical stimulant drugs over the years, such as Ritalin and Dexedrine. The stimulating properties in these drugs have the opposite effect on ADD and ADHD sufferers.
Recent studies have shown that positive effects have been received by use of the antioxidant Pycnogenol, an extract of the bark of the Maritime Pine Tree. Pycnogenol is very high in Proanthocyanidins, a subclass of bioflavonoids.

"Pycnogenol is a nutritional supplement composed of bioflavonoids and organic acids that has several beneficial effects in the body, including antioxidant activities, immune boosting effects, and cardiovascular protective properties" states Dr. Richard Passwater, who pioneered the use of Pycnogenol in the alternative treatment of ADD and ADHD.

Dr. Passwater continues, "Pycnogenol keeps neurotransmitters functioning longer....also improves circulation, including microcirculation in the brain. ... (It) helps to increase attention and improves focus and may decrease emotional reactivity" in those suffering from ADD and ADHD.

Some Signs of ADD and/or ADHD are:

1. Seat squirming, fidgety behavior with hands and feet.

2. Difficulty remaining seated.

3. Not keeping hands to themselves.

4. Difficulty waiting turn (in games or group activities)

5. Blurting out answers out of turn or before question is completed.

6. Difficulty following instructions.

7. Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities

8. Shifting from one uncompleted task to another

9. Difficulty playing quietly

10. Excessive talking

11. Interrupting or intruding on others.

12. Not listening to what is being said

13. Forgetting things necessary for tasks or activities

14. Engaging in physically dangerous activities without considering consequences

How Much Pycnogenol Should Be Taken

To help ADD and/or ADHD symptoms, the recommended loading dosage is 1 mg per pound of body weight per day (100 pound individual would need 100 mg per day for the first 3 to 4 weeks as a loading dose). As conditions improve, the initial loading dose may be cut back to half that amount.

When To Take It

Since Pycnogenol doesn't produce any digestive disturbances, and since taking it with meals doesn't affect absorption, it really doesn't matter when it is taken. Many folks, however, find that taking Pycnogenol with a meal is easiest and most convenient. Pycnogenol does improve the absorption of Vitamin C, so perhaps it is best to take it at the same time other supplements are taken.

Is It Safe?

Research on the use of Pycnogenol has shown it to be nontoxic, non-carcinogenic, and will not cause birth defects in unborn children. It is safe for children and pregnant women to take.

Other Alternatives
There are more natural alternatives to conventional ADD/ADHD treatment methods besides Pycnogenol that may be used in lieu or in conjunction with Pycnogenol. Here are suggestions:
1. High end multi vitamin/mineral products.
Those who suffer from attention disorders need higher doses of nutrients. Look for the highest amounts available, such as -- a product that contains 10,000 Vitamin A, not 3,000 or 5,000.
2. Vitamin C - Take one gram 3 times a day.
3. Vitamin B Complex - take 50 mg. 3 times a day
4. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - take 100 mg. day in addition to 50 mg. B Complex
5. Amino Acid L-Taurine as directed on label.
6. Valerian Root Extract as directed on product label taken 2 - 3 times a day in juice.
7. Catnip tea - drink 3 cups a day.

Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescription medications. The information and statements contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any dis-ease.

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