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by Jane Smolnik,ND, Certified Intuitive, Iridologist and Herbalist
The number of children labeled with hyperactivity or learning disorders has reached epidemic
proportions. According to Dr. Howard Peiper in his booklet titled A.D.D.- The Natural Approach, he
states -"To me hyperactivity, as any other serious chronic problem, is a sign of toxicity or deficiency or,
most of the time, a combination of both." Some of the causes given were: Not being breast fed, being
constipated, having gastro-esophagal reflux, being given multiple or frequent antibiotics or other
medications, as well as a poor, mineral deficient diet full of additives, preservatives, and artificial
sweeteners and food colorings. The sufferers of these conditions are mal-adjusted, mal-nourished,
impaired by abnormal brain chemistry, and most often our society is the cause.
According to Gregory S. Ellis, Ph.D, and Certified Nutrition Specialist, "A major contributing factor to A.D.
D. is cellular toxicity, specifically chemicals and metals. These toxins interfere with cellular function
and repair. Therefore, we need to detoxify the body at a cellular level, to clean and strengthen the
foundation before rebuilding nutritionally. A.D.D. can be corrected."
Practically every disease can be traced to congestion in the bowels. A sluggish bowel inhibits brain
function through lack of circulation and auto-intoxication, and reduces energy levels in general causing
fatigue or irritability. The brain and nerves become vulnerable, because toxins interfere with enzymatic
function needed to preserve proper metabolic functions.
Another contributing factor, besides mal-nutrition and toxicity, ADD sufferers often have an infestation of
parasites and candida (yeast build-up) in the intestines, which are caused by increased toxins and
sugars in the diet. The symptoms here may be food sensitivities or allergies, bloating, flatulence,
fatigue, headaches, and more!
Many babies can be born with toxins and parasites derived from the mother, and during the early years
may accumulate toxins from food containing pesticides, chemicals and additives. The child with a
weak genetic makeup is vulnerable to many types of toxins, which may not be eliminated properly due
to malfunctioning or a congested liver. This creates the perfect breeding ground for many parasites as
well. Natural methods for cleansing out the body, removing toxins and parasites, and restoring proper
nourishment are a powerful and effective way to treat this "illness."
Proper nourishment is clearly necessary as an important part of regaining natural balance and health
to the body. Dr. Gerald Olarsch, N.D., discusses the consequences of mineral deficiency as it relates
to our children and society in an article entitled "Why Are Kids Killing Kids." Dr. Olarsch links
hyperactivity and learning problems, as well as violent behaviors to a fundamental lack of minerals,
and insists that attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity - among other abnormal behaviors - may be
serious indicators of a lifetime of potentially worsening hardships, including depression and
instability. In many cases of A.D.D., these children often have more health and behavior problems,
including chronic ear infections, colic, and irritable behavior.
Dr. Olarsch tells us about the behavior known as pica, a severe and obsessive craving for foods due to
mineral deficiencies. "It appears most commonly in children as an extreme desire for sugary and salty
foods. Low iron levels were found to impair judgment, reasoning ability, and all aspects of left brain
activity, including scientific, mathematical, and spoken and written language skills." Another problem
with long-term mineral deficiency is that the body will latch on to heavy metals in an attempt to satisfy
itself, and store excess lead, aluminum, copper, and more. One study has positively linked high
copper levels in the brain to violent behavior in boys at a detention home. Taking liquid organic ionic
plant-derived minerals will alleviate this problem and help chelate existing heavy metal deposits in the
body.
A lack of minerals causes a grim outlook on life and leaves us prone to degenerative diseases, as well
as a host of mental and emotional ills. Clinically low levels of magnesium in blood plasma are
associated with hyper-excitability and inattention. Zinc deficiency has been linked to certain behavioral
problems including ADD. Lack of digestive enzymes can cause anything from digestive upset to
chronic irritability and fatigue, as well as impaired mental capacity. Essential fatty acids, known as
Omega-3's or Omega-6's, aid transmission of nerve impulses and are needed for normal brain
functioning - and is directly connected to treating ADD children. EFA's are found in Flax Seed Oil and
Borage Oil. Super powerful anti-oxidants with the ability to cross the blood brain barrier, known as
Proanthocyanidins, are substances found in grape skins, grape seeds, cranberries, blueberries,
blackberries, red wine, strawberries, and black cherries. Absolutely everyone can benefit from taking
liquid ionic plant minerals, but for ADD sufferers it is essential!
Until recently, Ritalin has been the "drug of choice" in treating ADD. It is a class II drug, defined as a
controlled substance and categorized with cocaine, methadone, and methamphetamine, and are
noted for their "high abuse potential." Ritalin has many possible severe side effects. More than 6
million American children take Ritalin regularly to help them with ADD. Doctors may encourage the
use of Ritalin because the results are often dramatic in "successful" cases where the child does what
it is supposed to do. When Ritalin is "unsuccessful", a child may become violent or excessively
irritable and impossible to communicate with. Some children become withdrawn and depressed,
unable to laugh or play. There are natural alternatives to Ritalin.
Also to be considered on a psychological level, is our reluctance to really feel our feelings. Many
people have experienced difficult abusive situations, and/or strong indoctrinated teaching to do what
you are told out of fear of rejection and/or punishment. We have been taught at an early age to
disregard our feelings, yearnings, and intuition, and conform to society. So many people are simply
not in touch with, or trying to avoid their innermost feelings. "Feeling" becomes replaced with "thinking"
out of resistance, trying to figure it out. Or by avoidance, by keeping our minds busy with lots of things
to do or watch, so we don't have to feel and experience. Inner chaos and stress ensues, at such a
cost! Being out of our natural environment and dis-connected from nature will also have this same
effect.
Our society is creating shorter and shorter attention spans through satellite TV, video games, and the
internet. What are we so afraid of feeling? Toxic emotions create deficiency of our Will! Overcoming
our "problems" is our greatest spiritual work, what we are here to move through, so we can fully
embrace and enjoy our life as the great creative spirit we are! Meditation, Inner Growth, and
Mindfulness classes are available all over the country for helping us learn to quiet our mind chatter and
get back in touch with our inner "real" self. Attention and Belief management techniques are a major
part of the empowering Avatar Course, which include techniques for exploring consciousness,
strengthening our Will and Attention, and returning to ‘Source’. Taught worldwide.
Mindfulness Practice to Restore Attention: As often as possible, put your attention on your breath. No
need to change it, just watch it flow in and out. Notice the natural rhythm of the body. What is it doing?
How is it feeling? Just be aware of your body, your feelings, on the ‘inside’.
Go somewhere enjoyable out in nature. Expand your awareness out and notice your surroundings.
Notice any sounds, sights, smells, sensations, and feelings. Learn to Observe and be aware. Relax,
and look at the Big Picture. Practice becoming more aware both inside the body and outside. Bring
your attention back and forth as needed.
Put your attention on something that is attractive, (a sunset, plant, flower, baby’s face, beautiful object,
etc.) notice everything about it. Practice keeping your attention focused on it for at least two full
minutes. Sometimes it is helpful to describe it in detail, notice every detail! Practice several times daily
until it is very easy to do.
A NATURAL APPROACH -
Many health care practitioners and doctors throughout North American, including myself, have been
seeing excellent results for ADD/ADHD clients using an organic, herbal cleanse and rebuild program.
So by effectively cleansing out toxins, eliminating any parasites or candida, and nourishing the body
fully to rebuild and restore health, many symptoms, including ADD and ADHD, can be reduced and
eliminated as the body is restored to natural functioning. Completing this 90 day program, many
children as well as adults are better able to concentrate, communicate, are more aware and relaxed,
and generally healthier!
Of course the diet should be improved to continue good health and performance. Sugary snacks like
candy, soda and cakes should be used for special occasions only! Fresh and dried fruits, yogurts,
peanut butter, and vegetable sticks provide healthier everyday snacks. 100% fruit juices without the
added corn syrups, and low or no sugar cereals are preferred. Avoid many processed, pre-packaged
foods that contain additives! Include two different colored vegetables with each lunch and dinner, as
well as chicken, turkey, soy products, fish or beans for protein sources. Eliminating beef and pork
products will reduce your intake of toxins and saturated fats. The two food items that have the highest
amount of toxic residues on them (can be more than 100 residues!) are grapes (inc. raisins), and
peanuts (inc. peanut butters). These are considered "red light" items, which should only be eaten
when you purchase them organically grown!
Continuing to take daily liquid vitamin supplements like Pro-Vitamin Complete will provide the proper
balance of nutrients that are often missing in our modern American diets! Adequate rest, fresh air and
exercise, love and support, and continued proper elimination of wastes are also necessary for vibrant
health throughout our lives. When we take good care of our bodies, it takes good care of us!
Jane Smolnik is Naturopathic Doctor, a certified Intuitive, Board Certified Iridologist and Master
Herbalist with a private practice in Asheville, NC. You may call her at 828-777-JANE or visit her webite
at UltimateHealing.com