Medications are often prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some adults and children, however, might not be comfortable with consuming drugs. As an alternative, there are a few home treatments that can help in managing ADHD symptoms. They can help improve focus naturally and build one’s attention span over time. By relieving stress, they also hold the potential to reduce negative emotions and impulsive behavior. Here are five home treatments that can alleviate symptoms of ADHD:

Eating iron-rich foods
Eating foods that are rich in iron is integral to managing ADHD. Iron can improve mental activity, attention span, and concentration. It also stimulates the production of dopamine. Children with ADHD can often have low levels of iron, which may give rise to many of its symptoms. Children can have an intake of 10 mg iron everyday. Pumpkin seeds are great sources of iron. They are also versatile, and can be sprinkled over a salad or popped into a fruit smoothie.

Exercising regularly
Exercise can ward off the restless energy that builds up in those who have ADHD. Regular physical activities such as running or workouts can improve concentration and stabilize hyperactivity. Exercising outdoors is particularly beneficial for those with ADHD. Exercising releases endorphins that induce a state of well-being. It also stimulates the formation of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, thus helping in combating anxiety and stress.

Eating fatty fish often
Fatty fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids; kids and adults with ADHD often lack omega-3 fatty acids. This deficiency may trigger ADHD symptoms. Studies suggest that symptoms of many psychiatric disorders such as depression and autism can be improved with omega-3 fatty acids. Incorporating two servings of fatty fish a week can improve attention for some people. An intake of fish including salmon, mackerel, lake trout, or sardines, among others, is an effective way to naturally manage ADHD symptoms.

Making sleep a priority
ADHD can often make it difficult to sleep well. Shifting focus from one thing to another can keep the brain busy for hours, making it impossible to sleep peacefully. Sleep deprivation, then, leads to a lack of focus and affects one’s mood too. This turns into a vicious cycle for those with ADHD. So, making sleep a priority is one of the best home treatments for ADHD. Lifestyle changes such as reducing screen time and eating dinner early can improve one’s sleep cycle and reduce ADHD symptoms.

Having a protein-rich diet
Proteins are a rich source of amino acids and play an important part in the supply of neurotransmitters. Consuming them can release neurotransmitters such as dopamine into the bloodstream, making one feel good and relaxed. This also regulates healthy communication among brain cells, which is another significant aspect of ADHD treatment. But this not it—protein also helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels.