Ritalin has been the most common drug associated with the treatment of attention deficit and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but there has been a push for a new natural treatment using Theanine. While there has been support for theanine as an all-natural treatment of ADD and ADHD, studies have not been conclusive.
What Is Theanine?
Theanine is an amino acid found most commonly in certain types of tea and mushrooms. It has the ability to pass through the blood/brain barrier and affect the brain directly.
What Theanine Does
Theanine has an immediate effect on serotonin and dopamine production and has been shown to increase alertness and improve memory. However, there have been no conclusive trials using theanine as a treatment of ADD and ADHD
Problems With Ritalin
Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant shown to increase attention and alertness in children. There has been a backlash in recent years because of its use as a recreational drug and over-prescription by medical professionals.
Advantages Over Ritalin
Theanine has been used for centuries as natural way to create relaxation with little or no side effects. Also, higher doses of the supplement have not shown any side effects or problems.
Warning
ADD and ADHD are medical conditions that should not left completely to holistic healing. Consult your physician if you think you child may have either of the conditions and bring up theanine with the doctor before giving it to your child.
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