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CBD for ADHD: Can CBD Help?

How CBD Oil Improves ADHD and Minimizes Symptoms 

cbd for adhd , cbd oil for adhd

From the point of diagnosis, people with ADHD are often prescribed medication. Some are lucky to find the right fit on the first try. Others have to go through several test periods and suffer both physical and mental side effects to find the best drugs for them. 

As a parent with a child who has ADHD, this process can be challenging to watch. It often leaves parents feeling helpless. Teens and adults with ADHD will have to navigate everyday life with all the turmoil happening within. So while medication may be helpful, it doesn’t always feel that way. Thankfully, medicine is not the only clinically proven way to manage ADHD. 

Studies suggest, CBD (or cannabidiol) can improve ADHD and minimize symptoms. It is one of the many compounds found in cannabis. Unlike its sibling, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not cause intoxication or a ‘high’ feeling. CBD provides several health benefits and has helped minimize symptoms of ADHD. 

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How CBD Works

Our bodies produce naturally occurring cannabis-like molecules called cannabinoids. They make up our endocannabinoid system, which is part of our natural regulatory system. This system is what carries messages around our bodies to help us maintain internal stability despite environmental changes (homeostasis). 

When we ingest CBD, it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are responsible for receiving and transmitting these signals around the body. For some health symptoms (such as ADHD symptoms), the extra dose of cannabinoids from CBD products improves the performance of this natural regulatory system. Here are some research-based examples of those symptoms. 

Impulsivity and hyperactivity

Both impulsivity and hyperactivity are common in people with ADHD. They are also difficult to control, even with the help of therapy. While therapists may not prescribe CBD, adults with ADHD have been self-medicating using CBD products. Two researchers decided to explore the results in these adults. During their study, adults with ADHD who use CBD products showed significant improvement in impulsivity and hyperactivity. They showed better inhibition and an increase in attention. 

Anxiety and sleep problems 

CBD products, especially oils, have been proven to reduce anxiety and sleep problems in both adults and children. In this study, clinical data is presented to show that CBD oil is an effective treatment for reducing anxiety and getting better sleep. Many people with ADHD struggle with settling down each night and enjoying a full night’s rest. CBD oil could be useful in alleviating this issue. 

Depression

People with ADHD are often diagnosed with depression. Experts say that more than half of the people with ADHD will be treated for depression at some point in their lives. This study suggests that CBD offers an antidepressant-like effect on patients. Of course, the word ‘like’ is attached because CBD is not regarded as a drug yet. The researcher also suggests that CBD should be explored for treating symptoms such as helplessness, which is a significant issue for many people with ADHD. 

Research on CBD is still ongoing, and we may never learn of its full potential for human health. However, there is enough evidence (and testimonials) to prove that using CBD products helps minimize ADHD symptoms. If you’re looking for a safe and natural remedy, explore our list of best cbd oil for adhd.

When medication doesn’t work, or isn’t an option, ADHD can be managed with natural remedies including dietary supplements, clean diet, exercise, and lots of patience. Don’t give up, keep researching and find what works best for you and your family.

For accurate information on CBD to manage ADHD as well as current CBD Promo Codes, join #CBD4ADHD on Facebook.

Learn how to research brands, how to dose, which brands are reputable, how to administer with ADHD Meds, and much more.  #CBD4ADHD

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Pesticide Exposure May Increase the Risk of ADHD

pesticides and Adhd

A new study published in the Journal of Pediatrics looks more closely at the issue of pesticides and the risk of ADHD – and raises new concerns about pesticides in the environment – particularly organophosphates.

Researchers from the University of Montreal measured levels of pesticides in the urine of 1,139 children living in the U.S. They found that kids with the highest pesticide levels in their urine – particularly organophosphate pesticides – had a higher risk of ADHD than kids with low levels. Although this doesn’t prove that organophosphate exposure increases the risk of ADHD, it does show there’s an association between the two – which should be of concern to any parent.

Organophosphate Exposure: What are Organophosphates?

Organophosphates are commonly used pesticides that are toxic not only to bugs and other pests, but to animals and humans as well. These pesticides deactivate an enzyme called acetycholinesterase. When this enzyme is inactivated, it causes nerve cells to fire repeatedly without rest which leads to paralysis.

Organophosphates were originally developed for use as toxic agents for warfare. They also affect brain development – even at low levels. Because of the effects organophosphates have on nerves and brain development, it’s not surprising that exposure to organophosphates could increase the risk of ADHD in children.

Exposure to Pesticides: How Are Kids Exposed to Organophosphates?

There are around forty organophosphates used in the United States – and the primary way kids are exposed to pesticides such as these is by eating contaminated fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know when you buy fruits and vegetables at the grocery store whether they’re contaminated with organophosphates. It’s not something that’s advertised. When you buy produce, you’re buying at your own risk.

How to Reduce Kids’ Exposure to Pesticides Such as Organophosphates

Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, so it’s important that kids be able to enjoy them safely. The way to ensure that your children are eating fruits and veggies that are almost free of pesticides is to certified organic ones.

A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives showed that kids who were switched from conventional diets to organic foods showed a significant drop in their urine levels of organophosphates to the point that they were almost undetectable. After a conventional diet was reintroduced, levels of these pesticides in the urine rose again.

ADHD in Childhood and Exposure to Pesticides: The Bottom Line

The best way to protect your child against exposure to pesticides that could increase the risk of ADHD is to buy organic fruits and vegetables – and wash them well before serving. It may cost a little more, but it could reduce the risk of future health problems.

References:

Medical News Today website. “Pesticide Exposure May Contribute To ADHD”

Environ Health Perspect. 2006 February; 114(2): 260–263.

Author: Dr. Kristie

Dr. Kristie is a medical doctor with a concentration in family practice. She also has an undergraduate degree in both Biology and Psychology and a master’s in Clinical Pathology. She’s been a published writer for the last two years and was named one of Associated Content’s top 100 writers.