Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly referred to as ADHD, is a behavioral disorder that affects approximately 3-5 percent of the world's population. The symptoms of ADHD include a consistent pattern of impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. It affects twice as many boys as girls and usually begins during childhood.

There are a variety of medications for treatment of ADHD today, but they are controversial. One of the reasons for this is that these ADHD medications very often have side effects that are quite severe. Also, they are not proven to sufficiently limit or stop ADHD developing. More and more people are becoming interested in using alternative therapies for ADHD.

Diet has often been thought to have a huge affect on ADHD, and people have often wondered how they can use it in ADHD treatments. A common belief is that sucrose, also known as sugar, increases ADHD. Many studies have been done on sucrose and ADHD symptoms, and they have found that there is no correlation. Sugar does not seem to increase symptoms.

Although sugar does not stimulate ADHD symptoms, negative effects have in fact been seen due to ingestion of artificial food colorings. Additionally, improvement has been documented when such damaging substances have been eliminated from the diets of afflicted children. Scientists have also noted a definite reduction in ADHD symptoms when Omega 3 and Omega 6 supplements are taken regularly.

The most common reason for a child having ADHD has been shown to be genetic. Genetic factors are thought to lead to about 75 percent of ADHD cases. Of those cases not caused by genetic factors, there are several environmental factors that are thought to lead to ADHD. These include a mother smoking or drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Other complications during birth, such as a baby being born prematurely, have also been tied to the onset of ADHD.

Whatever method you choose to treat your child's ADHD, it's important to keep informed of the new medications and natural remedies out there. Natural remedies often do not have the side affects that prescription ADHD medications can have. This can lead to alternative medicine being a better option that your typical Western medicine.