ADHD, better known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a chronic condition that mostly begins in childhood; however, it can progress into adulthood. It may contribute to low self-esteem, troubled relationships, and difficulty in school or work. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, lack of focus, hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting. Problems with playing, being patient, and unwillingness to finish simple tasks are symptoms of ADHD as well.

There are certain types of food that should be avoided when ADHD is present. The avoidance of these will help when coping with this disorder:

1. Milk
Milk is one of the drinks that should be avoided with ADHD. It has been said that food allergies and sensitivity have been known to cause hyperactivity in children. As a result, milk and especially, chocolate milk, have, at times, not been recommended for children of ADHD. However, please be advised that, even a child with ADHD needs the recommended intake of milk to have a healthy diet.

2. Chocolate
Chocolate should be avoided because candy is loaded with sugar and artificial colors. These serve as a bad combination for those with ADHD and have been known to increase ADHD symptoms.

3. Packaged and canned produce
Frozen fruits and vegetables have also been known to worsen the condition of ADHD when eaten. Even though fruits and vegetables are healthy and recommended for daily intake, when they are frozen, it’s the added sugar, preservatives, and food dye that make them harmful for ADHD.

4. Mercury containing fish
Mercury-based fish and seafood have been known to be harmful for those with ADHD. Salmon, tuna, and sardines are beneficial and reduce symptoms. However, mercury has been known to intensify these symptoms over time.

5. Wheat and soy
Wheat and soy have also been given a bad rap when it comes to children with ADHD ingesting them. Again, the food allergies and sensitivities that some may have can be aggravated when wheat and soy are ingested.

6. Processed snacks and meals
Lunchables are another food source that, although much loved by children, are unhealthy for a child with ADHD. The foods contained within the package are mostly processed, the meat, crackers, and the candy, and the food dye and preservatives used to maintain them in the package are known to aggravate the symptoms of ADHD.

7. Ice cream
Ice cream, another favorite of children, is also a dairy product containing milk. It should also be avoided because some children with ADHD do have a sensitivity to the milk contained within.

8. Packaged and canned pasta
Ramen noodles, or any type of pasta, has been known to be bad for ADHD because of the gluten. Gluten has been linked to increased ADHD symptoms.

In conclusion, these are just some of the foods that should be avoided with ADHD. With further research, others can be revealed.