On July 13, we observe International ADHD Awareness Day—a time to highlight a condition that affects millions of children and adults across the globe and right here in our Solidarity community. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often misunderstood, both in its root causes and in approaches to treatment. As a physician committed to seeking deeper solutions and addressing the whole-person, I’d like to share some important insights into ADHD, common causes and treatments, and how we at Solidarity strive to empower individuals and families to live in harmony with their God-given biology.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. It affects around 5-10% of children and adolescents globally and continues into adulthood in many cases. Children with ADHD may struggle with focus, forgetfulness, sitting still, or impulsive behavior, often facing challenges in school, relationships, and self-esteem.
Common Treatments for ADHD
Mainstream treatment approaches for ADHD often involve:
- Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamine salts (Adderall), which increase dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain.
- Behavioral therapy, which helps individuals build structure, develop coping skills, and implement positive reinforcement strategies.
- Educational interventions, such as individualized education plans (IEPs).
- Dietary and lifestyle modifications, including reducing screen time, supporting healthy sleep, and encouraging regular movement.
While medications can be effective for some, they do not address root causes or environmental contributors and are not without side effects. That’s why it’s crucial to take a more comprehensive approach when possible.
Environmental and Dietary Factors
Many families are unaware that certain food additives and environmental toxins can contribute to—or even worsen—ADHD symptoms.
1. Artificial Dyes and Preservatives
Numerous studies link synthetic food dyes—like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1—to increased hyperactivity in children:
- A Lancet study found that artificial colors and sodium benzoate significantly increased hyperactivity in 3- and 8-year-old children (McCann et al., 2007).
- A meta-analysis published in Pediatrics concluded that eliminating artificial dyes may reduce ADHD symptoms in some children (Nigg et al., 2012).
2. Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates
Although the link between sugar and ADHD is debated, high-glycemic diets may exacerbate symptoms in sensitive individuals. These diets cause rapid blood sugar fluctuations, which can mirror the impulsivity and inattention associated with ADHD.
3. Environmental Toxins
Exposure to heavy metals like lead, as well as pesticides such as organophosphates, has been associated with increased ADHD risk (Farmani et al., 2024; Bouchard et al., 2010).
The Genetic Component
ADHD has a strong genetic component. Studies show that heritability is approximately 70-80%. Several key genes have been linked to ADHD, including:
- DRD4 and DAT1, involved in dopamine signaling.
- COMT, which regulates dopamine in the prefrontal cortex.
- MTHFR, a gene that helps process folate, regulate neurotransmitter production, and supports cellular health.
But here’s the good news: being born with these genes doesn’t mean something is broken… it means you’re unique. These genes might put you at risk for some difficult health challenges, but they also help to shape your personality, activating strengths as well as weaknesses.
These genes may predispose a child to ADHD, but they also foster traits like creativity, resilience, intuition, and high energy. With the right support, a child with these genes may grow up to be a visionary, an entrepreneur, or an artist who sees the world differently and beautifully.
Working With Our Genes, Not Against Them
At Solidarity, we believe in working with how God made us, not suppressing our biology, but understanding it. Precision medicine shows us that when we:
- Nourish our bodies with clean, whole foods
- Detoxify our environments by removing harmful chemicals and artificial dyes
- Support our genes with the nutrients they need (like methylated B vitamins for MTHFR)
- Guide behavior with love and the right structure
… we help individuals with ADHD live more fully, with less dependence on pharmaceuticals and greater confidence in who they are.
When we understand this, we can tailor our nutrition, lifestyle, and environment to support our God-given path. This is not just about treating disease, it’s also about unlocking our full potential.
A Call for Hope and Healing
On this International ADHD Awareness Day, let us reflect on how ADHD is not just a challenge but an invitation. An invitation to dig deeper, to support our children comprehensively, and to honor the unique way God has formed each of us.
To all the parents walking this journey: you are not alone. At Solidarity, we are here to walk with you, to offer resources rooted in faith and science, and to promote true healing of body, mind, and soul.
In Solidarity,
