Have you ever looked at your child and wondered what causes ADHD? You may have heard it's caused by stress related to school or their home life but this isn't so. Most definitely the symptoms can be increased by stress, but not caused by them. Genes, and environmental reasons cause ADHD. Scientific studies have shown that there are specific physiological causes of ADHD. Things like genetics, brain injuries or abnormalities, and allergies or sensitivities to certain food additives. When you've completed this article, you'll have a better idea about what causes ADHD in children and what you can do to treat it.
While there does not appear to be one particular gene that causes ADHD, studies have shown that a series of genes each have a small to moderate effect. Parents with ADHD are likely to have one or more children with ADHD. While it may not be the parents, chances are there's someone closely related who's got ADHD. Researchers believe that in up to 80% of cases, heredity plays a part, which makes inheriting ADHD just as likely as height or eye colour. The next time your thinking about what causes ADHD in children, think about your family tree. It might be interesting to reflect on.
Studies have also shown a potential link between mothers who consume alcohol or smoke cigarettes while pregnant. Another environmental factor to consider when thinking about what causes ADHD in children is children exposed to lead (through older paint) while they are young have a greater chance of developing ADHD.
While children do develop ADHD due to other reasons, if a child suffers from a brain injury or abnormality, certain ADHD symptoms can present themselves. This would be an exception, not what causes ADHD in most children.
Some parents think sugar is what causes ADHD in children. This could be because parents are looking for ADHD symptoms to increase after consuming sugar, and are more tuned in to certain behaviour patterns. Chances are it's not sugar itself that has the effect but a food additive that is the problem. It could also be the child is sugar-sensitive. Regardless, reducing sugar amounts carries other added health benefits so it's worth doing either way. There is scientific evidence that supports the theory behind food additives being the issue, however. Sodium benzoate-based preservatives as well as artificial colouring (which is commonly found in kid's snacks and pop) has been found to increase hyperactivity significantly.
After considering the above stated facts, it's important to remember that what causes ADHD is not life's stressors. It's subtle brain alterations caused by either genetics or environmental factors as we discussed. The child will not be able to alter their behaviour on their own. They will require some type of treatment.
Do your research before you commit to anything. There are so many reasons to stay away from prescription drugs. When you consider how safe they are, the potential for serious short and long term side effects, you may not think the benefits are worth it. Natural treatment options are definitely worth looking into further. There are numerous natural treatments available to you. Things like homeopathy are a good option. Completely safe, with no side effects and no chance of addiction in the future. You can have all the benefits without any of the risk. Now that you no what causes ADHD in children, your next step is more than likely going to be how to deal with it.
Author Resource:-
Shannon Pollock is a passionate advocate of natural health remedies. She's been researching their use for many years.
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