o Plan a diet that provides at least 15 grams of protein at both breakfast and lunch (when we started we were working on providing 21 grams at these meals) – Protein at dinner is important as well, but this is also the time when attention and focus is not called into play as much as during the day. I will give you some examples of high protein food ideas later on, and believe me, I do understand how difficult getting your child to eat, let alone eat a high protein diet can be!
o Skipping breakfast, or eating a high-sugar high carb diet, and taking a stimulant can result in your child being unable to control their behaviors, especially after their school day is done and they come home to you.
o Use of an Omega-3 supplement may help impact your child’s attention and mood; check with your doctor before use! Studies have shown that use of this supplement can reduce the symptoms of inattention, impulsive behaviors, restlessness, and improved mood in children through adulthood.
o Protein for breakfast and lunch help to provide the amino acid, and tryptophan, which makes the body’s melatonin. Melatonin comes into play when it’s time for your child to go to sleep. Little to no protein in the diet contributes to difficulty with falling asleep and staying asleep.
o Try to plan stopping electronic game time and use of electronic devices for 1-2 hours before bedtime. Start to develop a quiet, calm, bedtime ritual (dimmer lighting, soft music, warm bath, massages, snuggle time, read a book, what works for you and your household)
o Consider using the supplement L-theanine 1-2 hours before bedtime to help your child relax and “calm down” in preparation for bedtime. Check with your doctor before use – this may interact with use of a stimulant medication or with blood pressure medications – be sure you have professional guidance for your child! This supplement has been shown to increase restful sleep and decrease nightly activity during sleep (especially with boys).
o Ask about have blood tests done to check on levels of Vitamin D, Iron, Magnesium in their system. Your doctor may prescribe taking supplements for these to bring up your child’s levels to the appropriate levels. As an example how the impact of these on your child’s body, it has been found that more than 30% of children with attention and mood issues have a Vitamin D deficiency – Vitamin D play a role in attention and mood regulation.
o Possible food allergy testing for corn, gluten, eggs, nuts, food dyes, wheat
o Life skills discussion, training, and practice to develop functional life skills, and social interaction skills
o Development of a nightly bedtime routine and schedule
o Try to avoid highly processed foods, foods with high sugar content, food dyes and preservatives