Mom question: Are there any other options for children with ADHD other than medication?
Dr. Bruner says: Yes, there are a ton of factors that can be affecting hyperactivity:
genetics: methylation & inflammation factors
immune system compromise
food intolerances/ sensitivities
gut reactivity and yeast overgrowth
blood sugar imbalances & hypo/hyperglycemia
lifestyle factors
school/ home stressors
sleep hygiene
exercise / movement patterns
screen time
balance and coordination
brain underdevelopment
primitive relex integration
Talk to your current healthcare providers: If your child is already being treated with other healthcare providers such as SPT, OT, or PT, I would talk to his team. Make sure you are discussing what you are seeing at home & if that is something they feel comfortable addressing. If not, see who they recommend in your area.
It is important that your child has a healthcare team that works and communicates well so that everyone is on the same page.
Where should I start?
Good documentation is going to help alleviate unnecessary (sometimes expensive) testing. So come prepared! Food, symptom, and sleep diaries are extremely helpful.
It can definitely give you good indicators if that red ICEE had something to do with the inability to listen later or if that bowl of chocolate ice cream was around the same time as the tummy ache that kept the child up late.
Be willing to make changes. Food or lifestyle changes can be some of the most daunting at first, but they can often reap the biggest reward! If we could put exercise in a pill, we wouldn't be able to keep it in stock!
Next step:
Find the right pediatric healthcare provider that is willing to work with your child. Make sure they have the time and resources to analyze posture, movement, and brain functioning patterns on top of your symptom surveys to get the BEST outcomes for your child and your family's lifestyle.
If I can ever be a resource for you or your family, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am happy to help.
In health & healing,
-Dr. Rebekah Bruner