Finally, a common sense ADHD study

You don’t see this very often: ADHD research that’s refreshingly logical.

Parents and grandparents of very active kids, take note…

Duke University researchers followed three groups of kids: 27 first-graders, 24 fourth-graders, and 28 students in grades one through four.

Kids in the first two groups were considered borderline ADHD, but not yet diagnosed. Kids in the third group were all diagnosed with ADHD. Inattention levels were reevaluated about once each year.

Results:

• Inattentive behavior declined in most of the kids
• In a large percentage, inattentive behavior dropped to normal ranges
• In about one-third of the kids who had originally shown at least six ADHD symptoms, no attention problems were found one year later

The Duke team notes that external factors might make a child seem inattentive–such as disruptive classmates. Their recommendation: Rechecking of ADHD symptoms may prevent unnecessary drug treatment.

Thanks for that welcome voice of sanity, Duke!

Of course, for many hyperactive kids a few key dietary changes can make a big difference–no need to wait a year. You can find tips on determining chemical sensitivities and food allergies in the e-Alert “How to Dismantle an ’89 Ford.”

Source:
“ADHD Symptoms Often Subside Within a Year” Randy Dotinga, HealthDay News, 3/26/10, healthday.com