Disciplining a Child with ADHD

ADHD in children is linked to hyperactivity, problems focusing on daily chores, getting easily distracted, and difficulty in organizing their tasks. The child may seem overly active and do things without giving them much thought, or even forget everyday chores. They may face problems while doing simple things like finishing their homework, getting along with friends and family, and making new friends.

Caring for a child diagnosed with ADHD poses a great challenge, and it is important that the parents and caregivers practice disciplinary techniques that are specific to the disorder. A comprehensive treatment plan which combines the use of drugs and following a set of behavioral practices is an effective treatment in fighting ADHD.

Disciplinary Techniques for Children with ADHD

Getting a child with ADHD to concentrate on a particular chore can be very difficult. All kids, and especially those with ADHD, prefer a set pattern which involves repetition of everyday chores they can get habituated to. Children benefit hugely from such set routines which enables them to perform better. Not following a routine will make the child battle more with his problems. As an example, make a list of chores that you would want your child to complete on a daily basis. These can be grouped into things to be done before leaving for school, things to be finished after returning home, and those that must be completed before bedtime. See to it that your child follows this. To begin with, make a list which the child can easily accomplish. He is going to need a lot of help and time to start following a fixed routine if he is not used to it. Keep your calm if the child cannot keep up in the initial stages. To help them, stick brightly colored post-its in every room which serve as reminders. Positively instructing your child to obey you goes a long way in disciplining him. Instead of "Do not shout" use "I would like it if you talk softly". Or "Can you please help me in cleaning up your room?" rather than "Clean up your room" will propel him to do the task, rather than ignoring it.

You will need to follow-up with constant reminders to get things done. Even after constant reminders if the child does not finish the set chore, mildly set forth the rule that non-compliance will result in penalty (like time-outs). Do not be harsh on the child, but make sure that you do not let unwanted behavior be ignored. Once the child understands that doing things his way is of little concern to parents, he will do exactly as he pleases. Talk to him and explain what exactly needs to be done. At the same time, if he successfully finishes the tasks assigned, heap praise on him and duly reward him. This is very important and will motivate him to perform better next time. Asking children to finish a task instills in them a sense of responsibility and helps build their confidence. Make a chart which records his daily progress and keeps a track of his records and consequences. If you want to make any change in their daily schedule, inform the children beforehand. Children prefer consistency, and an abrupt change in their fixed routine can make the transition to a new routine tough for them.

Involvement of Teachers

It is crucial that you involve your child's teachers in this kind of behavior therapy. Children spend a majority of their waking hours at school, so make sure his teachers understand the importance of following this technique. Exchange notes with his teacher so you can track his behavior at school. Parents and teachers must work closely together (and even take help from a behavioral counselor) to learn the skills required to handle ADHD children in school. The behavioral therapy techniques followed at school must be the same as those followed at home. It will thus be easier for the child to respond to the disciplinary actions and for the caregivers to keep track of the child's progress.

Helping an ADHD-affected Child to Interact Socially

Children diagnosed with ADHD can find it extremely difficult to get along with their peers. Teach your child social skills which will help him make new friends. Get to know the kids he is more likely to spend time with, and organize play-dates. Keep a watch on your child, without interfering a lot, so you know how your kid is behaving with others of his age. You may find that he does not share his toys readily or seems to be in a hurry and does not wait for his turn. Act accordingly and explain to your child what sort of behavior is acceptable in public. Give gentle reminders the next time he is out with other people. Kids with ADHD do better in sports that do not require team play, so enroll them in karate, swimming or gymnastics. Get to know children who share similar interests with your child, and try to foster friendship with them.

Additional Home Remedies

Some other changes you can make are - cutting down on processed foods and providing home-cooked meals which include lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are undoubtedly more nutritious. Keep bedtime regular by not letting the child watch TV late into the night. Instead read stories together, which will also inculcate a love for reading. A good night's sleep is crucial to have a relaxed, more focused brain the next day.

Disciplining children with ADHD involves good communication skills. Getting tuned in to your child's needs, setting clear expectations to get things done and rewarding his accomplishments will go a long way in helping you as a family cope with this disorder. Disciplinary techniques involving behavior therapy for ADHD are gaining wide acceptance nowadays. It has been observed that using disciplinary methods to curb ADHD can effectively bring down the dependence on medications used, which is good news for both parents and children. Used without drugs, they may take much longer to show positive results, but in the end, without any harmful side effects, you will have a happier and a more confident child.

Stomach Ulcer Diet Restrictions

In stomach ulcer, the tissues lining the stomach and adjacent parts become ulcerated and inflamed, resulting in open sores that may be as large as inch. Monitoring the daily diet plan is the main approach while treating stomach ulcers. This is because certain food items initiate the onset of stomach ulcer symptoms. Hence, understanding stomach ulcer and diet restrictions along with other triggering factors is crucial for managing the discomfort.

Diet Treatment

Also referred to as a peptic ulcer or gastric ulcer, the most significant symptom of stomach ulcer is burning pain in the abdomen. Ulceration of the stomach is not only attributed to diet, but the prime causal factors include bacterial infection (Helicobacter pylori) and medicine side effects. However, pain associated with stomach ulcer is worsened when the ulcerated area comes in contact with stomach acid. And as some food items cause increased production of these digestive enzymes, identifying them is the first step to decide the diet restrictions.

While dealing with stomach ulcer, there are some self-care guidelines that need to be followed along with restricted diet for peptic ulcer. One should neither remain hungry for an extended period, nor indulge in overeating. Both these aspects are likely to increase stomach acid production. Healthy eating habits like chewing food properly and small meal serving at regular intervals are suggested to ensure proper food digestion and more importantly, regulate secretion of stomach juices. Also, maintain a time gap between dinner time and sleep time, preferably for three hours.

Diet Restrictions Explained

A well-planned ulcer diet is effective in reducing stomach acid secretion, thus alleviating stomach ulcer symptoms. For people who have been recently diagnosed with gastric ulcer, planning stomach ulcer diet menu may sound challenging. While the triggering food items differ slightly from one person to another, there are some foods that are likely to worsen gastric irritation in every individual. For your understanding about stomach ulcer diet (foods to avoid), refer to the following points.

• While some stomach ulcer patients cannot tolerate sugary and greasy foods, others report onset of symptoms after taking spicy foods. So, the point is to eliminate both greasy and spicy foods in the gastric ulcer diet as far as possible.
• You will come across acidic foods in the list of diet restrictions for stomach ulcers. Examples include tomato, lime, lemon, orange and all citrus fruits. The sharp taste of these fruits is imparted by the rich citric acid content, which in turn increases stomach irritation.
• Drinks that are infused with soda, or simply carbonated liquids are not good for ulcer patients. The pH of plain soda water falls between pH 3-4. So, you can expect the consequences of having carbonated beverages in ulcerated lining of stomach.
• Coffee and other caffeinated drinks are a strict 'no' for people with stomach ulcer. Remember that caffeine encourages further erosion of stomach lining. Even if the label says decaffeinated coffee, its best to avoid it.
• Say not to drinks and beverages that contain alcohol. They have the same stimulating effects as caffeinated drinks. So, in order to keep gastric irritation under control, eliminate alcohol and substitute it with healthy drinks.

Coming to stomach ulcer diet recipes, the options are numerous. From the therapeutic point of view, using food ingredients that mask stomach acid, yet non-irritating to the stomach lining should be used in cooking. Some of the food items that serve as acid neutralizer include milk and dairy products, fiber containing fruits and vegetables, and food items having flavonoids in large amounts. Also, consuming foods rich in protein and vitamin aids in quick healing of ulcer.

Along with changes in the diet plan and eating habits, make sure to drink ample water and stay away from smoking. For worsening ulcer symptoms, do not delay a medical consultation. The doctor will run certain medical tests to examine the severity of stomach ulceration and rule out other diseases (stomach cancer). For stomach ulcer treatment, the doctor may also prescribe antibiotics and medications that reduce or block stomach acid secretion. In addition, it's necessary that you follow the prescribed healthy diet for ulcer to accelerate the healing process.

Herbal Remedies for ADHD

Attention deficit/Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder seen in children and persists until adulthood. As the name suggests, it has two primary conditions viz. inattention and hyperactivity. The signs and symptoms are seen in children from their infancy. It is caused by failure in coordination of the reticular activating system. The reticular activating system helps co-ordinate the activating system of the human body. Let us discuss some major symptoms of ADHD and then look at the herbal supplements for anxiety, as anxiety is one of its major symptoms.

Symptoms

• The child pays less attention to the work allotted to him in school or in some other activity.
• He does not listen to parents and teachers.
• The child faces difficulty in following the instructions given by teachers and parents.
• The child easily gets abstracted and diverted from the work he is doing. Often he tends to forget things.
• He/she talks continuously and is restless all the time.
• Usually, in ADHD, girls are inattentive and boys are hyperactive.

Natural Remedies to Treat ADHD

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is one of the smart drugs used to cure ADHD effectively by optimizing the brain functions. It is commonly recommended by doctors to improve the intellectual capacity of the brain. Ginkgo helps dilate the blood vessels and increases blood circulation in the body. It helps in functioning of neurotransmitters and improve the neural cell metabolism.

Brahmi
Brahmi, also known as bacopa, is an effective herb used to improve mental functions like memory span, concentration ability and mental quotient. Brahmi is one of the classic herbal supplements for anxiety which helps in invigorating the mind and also relaxes the mind to treat attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Scutellaria Lateriflora (Skullcap)
Scutellaria Lateriflora is a medicinal herb native to North America. The leaves of the skullcap plant are used for medicinal purposes. Skullcap is helpful in relaxing the mind and a tonic to treat anxiety, convulsions and nervous tensions. Skullcap acts as a sedative and helps in soothing the nervous system. It relaxes the muscles along with the nervous system and ensures normal functioning of the body.

Chamomile
Chamomile is another effective herb used to treat ADHD. This herb is an effective natural treatment for the fidgeting caused due to the disorder. Also, Chamomile helps relax the nervous system and promotes a calm mind. Apart from the natural supplements, Chamomile tea has a good effect on the patient. Overwork and fatigue is reduced to a great extent with Chamomile.

Green Oats
Green oats is a home remedy that is safe and beneficial for children suffering from the disorder. Like other herbal medicines mentioned above, green oats help in soothing and relaxing the nervous system.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)
Schisandra is another brain tonic that helps in increasing the brain capacity. Schisandra helps in normal functioning of the body, increases stamina and improves the mental functions. This herbal remedy increases the nervous response and meliorates the mental clarity. Schisandra is a stimulant used to improve the forgetfulness and reduce irritability.

Centella Asiatica (Gotu kola)
Gotu kola is one of the herbal remedies used to improve the mental clarity, brain functioning and mood. This is an effective herb that improves the cerebral blood circulation along with the overall blood circulation of the body.

Valerian
The herbal remedies include yet another medicinal herb called Valerian. The restlessness and anxiety is reduced to a great extent due to Valerian. The roots of this plant have the medicinal property and the juice of this plant is used in tinctures, capsules and tablets that are used to treat ADHD.

These are the ADHD herbal remedies that are used to effectively treat ADHD. Although these are home remedies, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking any of them. There are many herbal supplements for anxiety that are available in the market, but make sure to know whether your child is allergic to any one of the herbs.

How Much Potassium is in a Banana

A banana is not just an average tropical fruit, but there are many health benefits attached to it. Bananas are easy to peel, non-messy, sweet, and delectable fruits, that easily form a part of an average diet. You can even carry them around in lunch boxes as a filling snack, and earn some brownie points on health.

An average banana contains two times more carbohydrates, as compared to an apple. It is rich in vitamin A, iron, phosphorus, as well as natural sugars. Apart from nutritional facts, bananas fall under the category of 'potassium rich food'. Potassium is vital for delivering oxygen to the brain and other parts of the body through the circulatory system. Banana health benefits also include regulation of blood pressure, heartbeat and maintenance of water balance in the body. A person suffering from low potassium level in the blood should consume more bananas, as they will make up for the deficiency of potassium.

Potassium Content in a Banana
There are myths, that the consumption of one or more than one banana in a day, can result in exceedingly high potassium levels. However, this is untrue. A single banana contains about 400mg of potassium. This is just about 10 to 20% of the daily requirement of potassium by the human body. Thus, in no way can a banana cause an overdose of potassium level in the blood.

Potassium mEq in a Banana
Milliequivalent is defined as "the amount, in milligram, of a solute equal to 1/1000 of its gram equivalent weight." As the amount of substance in equivalents has a very small magnitude, it is often represented in milliequivalents (mEq), wherein milli stands for a measure divided by 1000. Mostly, the evaluation is done in terms of milliequivalents of solute per liter of solvent (or milliNormal, where mEq/L = mN). As an example, this is done especially while measuring the amount of potassium (in fluids); say in blood, its levels lie in the range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/l. As for an average-sized banana, the amount of potassium found equals 11.6 mEq.

Potassium in a Banana Peel
A banana peel is loaded with potassium, and can be added to compost as a fertilizer. Also, you can rub a fresh peel of banana, the yellow side out, around your eyes. This will help reduce eye wrinkles, worry lines and eye bags. You can even rub these banana peels on insect bites to reduce the swelling and itching. These peels contain about 40% of the total potassium (in mg) in an average banana.

As we know, potatoes contain more potassium than bananas. However, a banana also contains vitamin B6, vitamin C, and has a high fiber content. They also contain tryptophan, which relaxes the mind and makes you feel happy. The high fiber content helps in restoring normal bowel movements, and the potassium level boosts brain power. Bananas are an excellent fruit to be eaten with plain yogurt or honey. It serves as a cure for hangovers. Eating a banana daily, will sooth ulcers and make up for an iron deficiency.

ADHD Solutions That Work

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, most commonly diagnosed in children, could be got over effectively if the parents and teachers work together, and pay attention to the child and its behavior. Since the child spends a considerable amount of time at school and its behavior is believed to be shaped there, where there are situations of social interaction, most of the work interestingly has to be done by the teacher. Here are a few tips that have proved to be productive in due course of time.

The teacher's part

1. Have all the time for your student
It is understandable that a teacher can't spend all of his/her time for one particular student. But certain gestures like talking to the child whenever he passes by, a motherly smile and similar things can really make the child believe that the teacher really shows interest on him and he does care about his well-being. And also, it is a tendency of students to really open up when they meet the teacher in a non-teaching environment. The teacher thereby gets a chance to hear out the child and what his intentions are.

2. Make the poor student grasp things quickly
The most common symptom of ADHD disorder is that the child is prone to forgetfulness. The child finds it difficult to have in mind even the most simplest of things. This is where a teacher comes into the action. It has been scientifically proved that the child confuses itself with the symbols and words that look alike. It is therefore advisable to a teacher to teach such children with a real life example for such words. In situations where the words denote a thing or an animal, the child can be shown the pictures of the same. This process, eventually, has proved that the child diagnosed to have ADHD has continuously shown signs of improvement, especially in remembering things. Additionally, the teacher can use sign languages and have the children practice them so that they are less prone to forgetfulness.

3. Have the children abide by the rules you impose
It is the duty of a teacher to lay down the norms to the children and making them aware of the consequences if those rules are broken. The teacher must constantly direct the child and make sure that the child does what he is supposed to, right from the first attempt. Most of us may be wondering as to how this can be taken as a solution to get over children suffering from ADHD. The answer is that, when children are made to follow the directions imposed by the teacher, they develop in themselves a sense of control and thus indirectly, the symptoms of hypertension and being impulsive get retarded.

The gain?
These simple methods when followed consciously will definitely prove to play a huge role in shaping the behavior of the children. Interestingly, not only the children are the ones who get benefited, the teacher also has a reason to smile. From the teacher's point of view,

• There will be a notable improvement in the attitude of the children for which he can be glad.
• As the most delightful part of the job, he can be proud of himself when the parents of the child compliment him.
• He can feel better when he realizes that he does take steps to help the children and those measures are really effective.
• He now knows the students well, and treats them as his own child.

As far as the parents are concerned, they are advised to treat their child with love and care, make them feel secured, work in conjunction with the teachers and put in the best of their efforts to make their dear one get over ADHD.

Gastric Ulcer Diet

Gastric ulcer, also known as stomach ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer that is caused by localized erosion of the lining of the stomach due to bacterial infections, or intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Once the protective mucus layer of the stomach is compromised due to these factors, digestive juices containing pepsin and hydrochloric acid can damage the stomach tissue, leading to painful ulcers. These can cause burning and aching pain in the stomach, loss of appetite, bloating or vomiting after eating and weight loss. Apart from medications, one of the best ways of minimizing the pain and decreasing the chances of developing these ulcers is by making dietary modifications.

Diet for Gastric Ulcers
Previously the diet for gastric ulcers was limited to bland food, along with a lot of milk and dairy products. However, research has shown that some food like milk which provides quick relief from gastric ulcer pain might aggravate the condition later. Although the diet for gastric ulcers is not as strict or as limited as before, and a bland diet is still the best option, it is still necessary to formulate a proper food chart for ulcer patients. Here is a list of recommended foods and foods to avoid with ulcers.

Foods to Eat
Fruits,vegetables, low-fat milk and milk products along with whole grains are some of the ideal food choices for an ulcer diet. It is also advisable to include lean meat, eggs and fish in the diet.

Foods to Eat
Fruits and Vegetables	All fresh, frozen, canned vegetables and fruits can be consumed.
Whole Grains	Whole-wheat pasta, whole-wheat noodles, enriched rice, low-fat crackers, whole-wheat breads, tortillas, rolls and bagels
Protein Sources	Lean meats, eggs, legumes, beans and oily fish
Dairy Products	Low-fat milk, skim milk, low-fat yogurt, low-fat cheese and soy milk.
Oils and Fats	Low fat oils like olive oil and canola oil
Beverages	Water, herbal teas, fruit juices and non-caffeinated beverages

Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are rich source of fiber, and hence can be included in the gastric ulcer diet. It restricts the development of ulcers while also increasing the healing time. Eat a variety of fresh, frozen or canned vegetables (which is prepared with added fat) and fruits. Along with fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamins, minerals and powerful antioxidants that regulate the growth of the H.pylori bacteria, and also have anti-inflammatory properties. Apples, strawberries, blueberries, bell peppers, dark green leafy vegetables and yellow squash are some good examples of fruits and vegetables to be included in the gastric ulcer diet.

Whole Grains
The ideal diet for gastric ulcer should consist of whole grains and cereals. Try whole-wheat pasta, noodles, enriched rice, low-fat crackers, whole-wheat breads, tortillas, rolls and bagels. The complex carbohydrates in these foods restrict the hunger pangs, and prevent heartburn that is associated with gastrointestinal troubles. Wheat bran is also believed to neutralize the stomach acids, which in turn allows quick healing of ulcers.

Protein Sources
Lean meats like beef, pork, lamb, ham, chicken and veal, that have been well cooked and tender, can help in lowering the risk of gastric ulcers, while also providing the much-needed proteins. Inclusion of oily fish like salmon and mackerel which have omega-3 fatty acids are known to reduce the risk of ulcers. The prostaglandins production is increased with the intake of the fatty acids. These compounds protect the lining of the stomach and the entire digestive tract, thus keeping it healthy. Other protein rich foods include tofu, eggs and nut butter.

Dairy Products
There was a time when milk and milk products were a mainstay of an ulcer patient's diet. Unfortunately, the acid neutralizing effects of milk is temporary, and in most cases even counterproductive, as the milk produces acid for longer period. Switch to low-fat milk or skim milk, and other dairy products like low-fat yogurt, low-fat cheese and soy milk.

Oils and Fats
Too much of oily and fatty foods need to be avoided. Ideally limit the oil consumption to around 8 tablespoons. Low-fat oils like olive oil and canola oil are some good options. It is also important to avoid fatty dressings like mayonnaise, margarine and other salad dressings. Instead switch to low-fat variants of the same.

Beverages
Include eight to ten glasses of water in the diet along with mild, herbal teas, fruit juices and non-caffeinated beverages.

In addition to this, the foods should contain nutrients like vitamin C which is known to inhibit the bacterial growth, and allows the infection to clear up easily.

Foods to Avoid

Foods to Avoid
Fruits and Vegetables	Fruits with citric acids such as lemons, grapefruits
Cereals and Breads	Baked goodies like cakes and pastries, breads with nuts and dry fruits
Meat Products	Highly-seasoned or deep-fried meat, poultry and fish
Dairy Products	Whole milk, cream, flavored cheese
Snacks	High fat snacks like chips, french fries,
Seasonings and Condiments	Black and red chili pepper, chili powder, chili sauce and barbecue sauce
Oils and Fats	Hydrogenated oil, butter and lard
Beverages	Coffee, tea and carbonated beverages

Fruits and Vegetables
Gastric ulcers patients should steer clear of foods and juices containing citric acids such as lemons, grapefruits, tangerines and oranges. The acidity in these fruits can aggravate the condition. Certain vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, turnips, tomatoes, corn, broccoli and Brussels sprouts, or those cooked with high fat are known to increase the stomach acidity and aggravate the ulcers.

Cereals and Breads
Baked goodies like cakes, pastries, crackers, croissants, bread products with nuts and dry fruits are high in trans-fats which are inflammatory in nature. It should thus be excluded from the diet.

Meat Products and Substitutes
Highly-seasoned or deep-fried meat, poultry and fish have high levels of trans-fats that can irritate the stomach lining and aggravate the ulcers. Red meats should also be avoided.

Beverages
Certain beverages like coffee (with or without caffeine), green or black tea and carbonated beverages irritate the stomach lining or increase acid production. It is also important to cut down on alcohol intake as it increases the acidity of the stomach, and can contribute to ulcer development or worsen symptoms of existing ulcers

Fats and Oils
Hydrogenated oil, butter and lard are some fatty additives that should be avoided.

Snacks
High-fat snacks like chips, french fries, cookies, pies, pastries, doughnuts, chocolates and other snack foods containing nuts should be avoided.

Seasonings and Condiments
Spicy food is known to cause bowel problems for many people. Black and red chili pepper, chili powder, chili sauce and barbecue sauce are some seasonings that needs to be avoided. It is also advisable to keep the salt intake minimal as the excess sodium in the diet is linked to high risk of stomach ulcers.

Sample Menu Plan
Following is the sample diet plan for patients suffering gastric ulcer.

Meal	Foods to Eat
Breakfast	cup apple juice, cup oatmeal, 1 slice toast, 1 cup skim milk, 1 tsp low-fat margarine, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp jelly, tsp salt.
Lunch	cup cream of potato soup, 3 oz. broiled chicken patty, bun, tossed salad, low-fat dressing, 1 tsp mustard, cup peaches, 1 cup skim milk, tsp salt.
Dinner	cup apricot nectar, 3 oz baked fish, cup mashed potatoes, cup green beans, 1 slice bread, cup vanilla pudding, 1 tsp low-fat margarine, tsp salt.

The main purpose of the diet for gastric ulcer patients is to provide necessary nutrients and minerals, while restricting the food items which normally irritate the stomach and the digestive tract. Along with this, having small and frequent meals can reduce the risks of acid reflux. Avoiding spicy foods, large meals and having food at least four hours before sleeping, will minimize the chances of acid backflow to the esophagus. It is also best to avoid smoking. This will reduce the risks of ulcer complications that can intervene with the gastrointestinal wound healing.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical professional or dietician. Any changes in the diet for gastric ulcers should be made only after consulting the doctor.

Hyperactivity in Toddlers

Toddlers are the most difficult lot to handle. They are extremely curious about everything and are always on their toes to explore the world around them. These kids have astonishingly high energy levels, which need to be properly channelized. However, as parents we must always look out for signs of hyperactivity in children. At the same time, one must not mistake the lively and cheerful behavior of some toddlers for hyperactivity. Here are some signs that will help you to detect hyperactive behavior in toddlers.

Symptoms of Hyperactivity in Toddlers
Hyperactive toddlers often misbehave intentionally however, it is important to understand if this misbehavior is out of hyperactivity or ignorance. Given below are some signs to identify a hyperactive toddler.

• Hyperactive toddlers often have eating or sleeping disorders.
• They are unable to relax and are always fidgety.
• Hyperactive toddlers give a tough time to their mothers while feeding.
• They are unable to participate in group activities of kids.
• They may show willful misbehavior.
• They may have a tendency to intrude others conversation, games etc.
• They may not follow rules or may not listen when directed to do so.
• They talk a bit too much for their age.
• Excessive running around, crying and throwing tantrums are some common signs of hyperactivity.
• Toddlers of school age are always out of their seat and find it difficult to complete their homework.
• They may show an extremely attention seeking behavior.

Causes
There can be numerous causes of hyperactive behavior in toddlers, some of them are as follows:

• Alcohol or smoking during pregnancy can induce ADHD symptoms.
• Hyperactivity may arise due to a brain injury in the fetal state or later.
• Hyperactivity often runs in the family, therefore genetic composition may cause hyperactivity in toddlers.
• Pollutants like lead also contribute to hyperactivity.
• Certain foods aggravate the hyperactivity in children. These include foods that are excessively sugary, over processed with food additives and other chemical ingredients.

Diagnosing Hyperactivity
Diagnosing ADD/ADHD in toddlers is a difficult task as you ought to know if the symptoms exhibited by your child are that of general hyperactivity or ADHD. Doctors often advise parents to go slow and not get worked up by their child's hyperactivity. ADHD is rarely diagnosed in kids under age 5. Some possible signs of ADHD may be actually harmless and only a result of high energy levels in a kid. If you succeed in channelizing this energy properly, then you may be able to minimize such hyperactive behavior. If your child shows hyperactivity but usually has no problem following rules or adhering discipline, then she probably does not have ADD/ADHD. However, if your child shows most of the symptoms mentioned above, then you ought to take steps to control her hyperactive, impulsive behavior. Parents must not think that their child will eventually grow out of ADHD, because ADHD often accompanies into adulthood. Medications may keep the symptoms of ADHD in check and help an individual lead a normal life.

Treatment
Hyperactivity associated with ADHD is often diagnosed when the parents, who are concerned about child's accident prone nature or poor academic performance, take him to a professional. After assessing the condition of the child, the course of the ADHD treatment is determined. It may either be behavioral therapy or some medications can be given to calm the child. ADHD medications such as Cylert (pemoline), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), or Ritalin (methylphenidate), which normally act as stimulants have a calming effect on hyperactive children. These drugs assist the child to focus properly and eventually improve her academic performance. Behavioral therapy, however, needs a lot of patience and support from parents and teachers. Alteration in the diet plan of hyperactive child also shows good results. Parents of hyperactive toddlers may also choose to opt for homeopathy, herbal remedies for ADHD, acupuncture or any other alternative medicine. The effects of treatment are evident within 3 - 6 weeks. The medications can be tapered off when the child consistently shows controlled behavior.

Hyperactivity can be pretty traumatic for kids as well as parents. Not only such behavior makes the child extremely unstable, but it also becomes a cause of social embarrassment for the parents. Nonetheless, it is important to identify the cause of hyperactivity and go for the best possible treatment to ensure proper mental and physical development of the child.