CHILDREN'S HEALTH

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Autism

Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) are characterized by developmentally inappropriate inattention and impulsivity, with or without hyperactivity. ADHD is implicated in learning disorders and is diagnosed four times more frequently in boys than girls. Despite the frequent references to ADHD as a neurological disorder, the cause of ADHD remains unknown. The primary signs of ADD with or without hyperactivity are the display of inattention and impulsivity. ADHD with hyperactivity is diagnosed when signs of over-activity are obvious. Inattention is described as a failure to finish tasks started, easy distractibility, seeming lack of attention, and difficult concentration on tasks requiring sustained attention. Impulsivity is described as acting before thinking, difficulty taking turns, problems organizing work, and constant shifting from one activity to another. Hyperactivity is described as difficulty staying seated and sitting still, and running or climbing excessively.

Autism
Autism symptoms usually manifest within the first two to four years of life. Once considered a rare disorder with an incidence of only one to three cases per 10,000 births, autism is now reaching epidemic proportions with an incidence of 20 to 40 cases per 10,000 births and clusters on one case per 150 children reported in New Jersey and California. Autism not ranks third among childhood developmental disorders, making it more common than Downs' syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and cystic fibrosis.

Almost all of us have been told about the benefits of childhood vaccinations. Many recall receiving their first polio vaccine at school. The revolution in disease prevention touched most of our lives.

But less well known is the fact that some childhood vaccines expose children to potentially toxic levels of heavy metals, including mercury. One of the most notorious culprits is thimerosol, a preservative that contains 49.6 methyl mercury, one of the most dangerous nervous system toxins known today.

Thimerosol is used in many common childhood vaccines. In June 1999, Food and Drug Administration officials noted, "Infants who receive thimerosol containing vaccines at several visits my be exposed to more mercury that recommended by Federal guidelines for total mercury exposure."

A growing number of doctors and researchers are concerned that increased rates of autism, a neurological disorder characterized by impairments in language, cognitive and social development, may be lined with such vaccinations.

Many children have poor diets or even illness due to poor nutrition and improper detoxification. The improvement in diet and the addition of key nutrients can keep children health and may even aid in the reversal of many childhood health problems, especially as it is found that these disorder are exacerbated or, in some cases, caused by gastrointestinal imbalances.

Helpful Nutritional Protocol:

Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil- This oil is perhaps the healthiest of the widely available oils. This is the most superior cooking oil as well. Consume as much as two tablespoons per day of the oil in cooking, smoothies, or right off the spoon. It contains large amounts of lauric acid, a potent antimicrobial and one of the chief fatty acids in breast milk.

Cod Liver Oil - Take 1/2 to one teaspoon of cod liver oil each day. The amount consumed should be based upon the amount of sunlight you receive. People in colder climates generally need to consume larger amounts. Cod Liver oil is a fantastic source of the omega-3 fats DHA and EPA, as well as vitamins A and D.

Primal Defense - Start with one caplet or one scoop of powder per day mixed with juice or applesauce. Increase usage by adding one additional caplet or scoop per week (i.e. one caplet/scoop the first day, two the second day, three on the third day and so on). Once your dosage is up to three to six caplets or scoops per day (depending on severity), stay on that amount for a minimum of three months and then begin to gradually decrease to a maintenance dosage of between one to three caplets or scoops per day. Primal Defense is best taken first thing in the morning and right before bedtime. Primal Defense may be taken with other nutritional supplements, but should be taken one hour apart rom medications. If you experience symptoms of detoxification (i.e. increased elimination, loose stools, constipation, excess gas, flu-like symptoms or fever), reduce the dosage and work up slowly up to 12 per day.