| When you think of treating the symptoms of | | | | cause agitation and raise the heart rates of young |
| ADHD does caffeine come to mind? There have | | | | children. This is even more of a problem if the |
| been numerous studies done on how it affects | | | | child is already on a stimulant medication. Some |
| children with the disorder. The results have been | | | | people feel the health risks outweigh the benefits. |
| surprisingly well. In one study, children who drank | | | | Caffeine intake in children for ADHD is very |
| two cups of coffee a day instead of medications | | | | controversial because some people feel caffeine is |
| saw results. Studies concluded that low dosages | | | | the actual cause of the increase in symptoms. |
| of coffee had the same affects as the often | | | | Research on caffeine has shown that just one |
| prescribed medication, Ritalin. | | | | bottle of soda can cause negative mood and |
| Specialists have evidence that ADHD is caused by | | | | behavioral effects. The level of effect of caffeine |
| dopamine in the brain. By ingesting caffeine, it | | | | also depends on the child's weight. Children may |
| helps to reduce the blood flow in the brain. It acts | | | | feel agitated, anxious, nervous, and have |
| exactly how ADHD medications work. It can also | | | | difficulties sleeping. Such effects are similar to the |
| help the child understand information clearer and | | | | symptoms of ADHD which is why people do not |
| stay focused. | | | | always agree on treating the disorder with this |
| It is important to remember that the caffeine | | | | stimulant. |
| intakes for children are low so the side-effects | | | | If you feel caffeine is not a safe choice for your |
| are not the same as if taking strong amounts. | | | | child, another option to research is the natural |
| Dependence on caffeine can only occur if taking | | | | supplement, Listol. Listol works to reduce the |
| high dosages. Safe levels of caffeine are 2.5 mg | | | | symptoms of ADHD by ceasing nutrient |
| per kilo for children. Beyond the obvious soft | | | | efficiencies. It has been proven safe to use and |
| drinks, caffeine is hidden in many foods such as | | | | when compared to its affects, is the most similar |
| desserts and even medications so keeping track | | | | to medications. |
| of caffeine intake in foods is crucial to limiting | | | | Your safest route in finding natural ways to treat |
| amounts. | | | | your child's ADHD is by discussing this with the |
| Not all studies have had positive results. There are | | | | Doctor. What works for one child, not always |
| negatives that parents should be aware of and | | | | works for the other. Side-effects also vary. |
| consider when giving this stimulant to their child. | | | | Finding the best match suitable will help your child |
| Some studies have shown that caffeine can | | | | find a safe alternative to medication. |