STUDY: A study published in PLoS One by researchers at Columbia University’s Center for Children’s Environmental Health found that children exposed to high levels of air pollution during pregnancy were five times more likely to have ADHD by age 9.

DETAILS: The researchers measured levels of a common pollutant called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or PAHs. PAHs are a group of chemicals that are used in making dyes, plastics, pesticides and even medicines and in modern life they are pretty much unavoidable. The EPA has classified seven PAH compounds as probable human carcinogens: benzanthracene, benzopyrene, benzo fluoranthene, benzo fluoranthene, chrysene, dibenzanthracene, and indenopyrene.

The Center for Children’s Environmental Health reports studies that demonstrate that exposure to PAH pollution during pregnancy is related to adverse birth outcomes including low birth weight, premature delivery, and heart malformations. Also higher levels of PAH is associated with a 24% higher score of anxiety or depression for children ages six to seven than those with low exposure levels.

Suggestions:

a) Avoid regions with high air pollution

b) Some studies suggest that children with ADHD may have lower levels of zinc in their body. And some scientists have reported improved symptoms in children with ADHD who took zinc supplements along with traditional ADHD treatment.

c) There is some evidence that fish oil with high Omega-3 can help improve ADHD symptoms.

d) Scientific research on ADHD diets is limited and results are mixed. Some believe that including beans, cheese, eggs, meat, and nuts is good. Add protein foods in the morning and for after-school snacks, to improve concentration and possibly increase the time ADHD medications work. Include vegetables and some fruits (including oranges, tangerines, pears, grapefruit, apples, and kiwi).

Source: PLOS, Wikipedia, WebMD others