The Cause of ADHD May Be Closer Than You Think

The cause of ADHD in your child can be traced back to the family. The condition is genetically based, which in simple terms, means your child may have inherited some of your nervous system genes. Even though conditions at home or school can contribute to it, they are not considered ADHD causes.

There have been many scientific studies that link physiological attributes to the cause of ADHD. These include gene makeup, absorbing toxic ingredients, trauma to the brain, and reactions to some food additives.

* The makeup of your genes:

Look at other members of your family. Did you know that even though three to five percent of kids are diagnosed with ADHD, twenty five percent of an ADHD child's relatives will also have the condition. Scientific studies have even revealed the specific genes that have been linked to the cause of ADHD!

* Toxic ingredients:

If you consumed alcohol or used tobacco products while you were pregnant, and you have an ADHD child, studies have indicated a possible link. A fetus will absorb these toxic substances which certainly can't be good. If your child has been around building structures that are old, he may have been exposed to lead poisoning. Some of these toxic ingredients have been labeled as potential ADHD causes. When I was growing up on a farm, my Dad exposed me to DDT which is now banned in the USA. Maybe that contributed to my ADHD, and then my son's.

* Brain trauma:

Most kids, thankfully, don't fall into this category, but certain types of brain trauma can bring on ADHD symptoms. Scientific studies have shown that when an ADHD child and a NON-ADHD child had brain scans, or an MRI, there were some differences in certain areas of the brain. This would seem to show that the brain has something to do with the cause of ADHD.

* Food additives:

About ten percent of ADHD children show reduced symptoms when their sugar and additive intake have been reduced. Now here is somewhat of a surprise. While most of us, including me, tend to associate sugar with hyperactivity, there was no difference when kids were given either sugar or a sugar substitute. That means that sugar doesn't play a role in ADHD symptoms.

However, since a lot of people have it in their heads that sugar causes ADHD symptoms, they may see more symptoms after a child has some sugar. Studies show that parents who believe that their kids have been given sugar (when they have actually been given a substitute) are just as likely to say that ADHD symptoms have worsened as parents of children who are given actual sugar.

But even if it is only perceived, a reduction in sugar intake (or high fructose) can only be beneficial.

A very recent study has found that preservatives and food coloring, which can be found in soft drinks and junk food, greatly increase hyperactivity in children. So make sure you watch what they are putting into their bodies.


Remember, ADHD causes children to behave in unsatisfactory ways, but it doesn't have to be this way. It is a highly treatable condition. There are prescription drugs that are effective for the symptoms, natural remedies which attack the root of the condition, dietary control, and behavioral therapy. Do your research and then do what is in your child's best interest.

Diana is a Natural Health Consultant and is currently taking classes to earn a certificate in herbalism. Her website Natural Health and Herbal Remedies, offers the knowledge, insights and experiences she has gained from her journey into the world of natural health and her quest to share it with others. Learn more about a Natural ADHD Remedy.