My newest endeavor has been to find a pediatrician who works on a holistic level. Thanks to iluveeyore, a very helpful reader, I found one who practices at Loma Linda Hosptial. That is only an hour away from where we are. I'm not sure if our insurance would cover an office visit, but I will gladly pay the regular fee for a visit, just to have the chance to get the opinion of a different kind of doctor. I will be calling them today.
Daniel has not had any other withdrawal signs. He has stopped getting dizzy and seems to be a lot more at ease, knowing that what he was experiencing was a normal reaction to the adjustment of the lack of medication. Being on our new diet has helped us focus on making good choices. We talk more often about how the choices we make, effect so many things that we do not realize. We talk about behavior and how controlling our anger can make the outcome of a situation more pleasant and not end in a punishment. We talk about the choice to put only good food into our bodies and how it effects how well our bodies work. I tell them about my grandpa. He was a diabetic for almost sixty years. He never lost a limb and lived to the ripe old age of 80, because he ate well, took vitamins and exercised regularly. He was a shining example of making healthy choices for a long life.
I am reading a book called "The Gift Of ADHD Activity Book," (Lara Honos-Webb, PH.D.) It gives over 100 different activities to do with an ADHD child and reasons why it helps them on a behavioral level. Daniel enjoys doing these activities and the best part is, they can be done with all of the kids. They are designed to help with increased concentration, relaxation, imagery, self control and frontal lobe activity. Today, we are going to do an activity called "Joy, joy and more joy." It teaches the child to create a sense of greater joy by focusing on the things that he/she loves. We are going to do activities that Daniel loves, read about his favorite things and let him pick out what we make for dinner (he loves to cook!) We are going to focus on the positive aspects of ADHD and use them to build more self esteem in Daniel.
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Friday, June 27, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Road Blocks
Our real blessings often appear to us in the shape of pains, losses and disappointments; but let us have patience and we soon shall see them in their proper figures. ~Joseph Addison
I am feeling slightly disappointed today...okay, a lot disappinted. Dr. Phan is no longer in practice at the same location and his co-workers are not divulging his whereabouts. I know it sounds odd. I find that strange, but what am I to do?
Well, I'm not giving up. I know that he bought the special glasses from some company. Hopefully, through the help of the internet, I can locate the origin of such glasses. I'll do a little research and see what I come up with.
The dietary changes are going well. I made cookies last night and allowed the kids to add some chocolate chips. They actually considered the cookies a treat, which is not something I've witnessed in a long time. They got so used to having sugar based products, that it was commonplace and expected. They got to the point of complaining about the kind of candy I would buy for them. Yes, it was a real eye opener for me. When treats are no longer appreciated, you know it is time to cut them out for awhile.
Daniel will be going in for his allergy test, next week. In the meantime, I'm searching for a new pediatrician, much to the disagreement of my husband. He thinks that the solution to our lack of trust in our doctor should be to address it with him, instead of replacing him. After all, he does know our family and has treated them since birth. I don't know if a discussion will help. He does what he is trained to do, write prescriptions. I'd rather seek out a doctor of alternative medicine and homeopathic remedies. Or at least one who is willing to say, "I don't know the answer to that."
I am feeling slightly disappointed today...okay, a lot disappinted. Dr. Phan is no longer in practice at the same location and his co-workers are not divulging his whereabouts. I know it sounds odd. I find that strange, but what am I to do?
Well, I'm not giving up. I know that he bought the special glasses from some company. Hopefully, through the help of the internet, I can locate the origin of such glasses. I'll do a little research and see what I come up with.
The dietary changes are going well. I made cookies last night and allowed the kids to add some chocolate chips. They actually considered the cookies a treat, which is not something I've witnessed in a long time. They got so used to having sugar based products, that it was commonplace and expected. They got to the point of complaining about the kind of candy I would buy for them. Yes, it was a real eye opener for me. When treats are no longer appreciated, you know it is time to cut them out for awhile.
Daniel will be going in for his allergy test, next week. In the meantime, I'm searching for a new pediatrician, much to the disagreement of my husband. He thinks that the solution to our lack of trust in our doctor should be to address it with him, instead of replacing him. After all, he does know our family and has treated them since birth. I don't know if a discussion will help. He does what he is trained to do, write prescriptions. I'd rather seek out a doctor of alternative medicine and homeopathic remedies. Or at least one who is willing to say, "I don't know the answer to that."
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Dr. Phan-tastic
Everything that is new or uncommon raises a pleasure in the imagination, because it fills the soul with an agreeable surprise, gratifies its curiosity, and gives it an idea of which it was not before possessed. ~Joseph Addison
There is a doctor of chiropractics that is known for his ability to correct ADD/ADHD symptoms by balancing out the brain with specific exercises, music and glasses. I know it sounds very unconventional, but I've heard that it works. My cousin has a son who was on ADD medication. She, like me, decided that medication was not the way she wanted to go. So she took her son to see Dr. Phan. He has not been on medication since, his grades have vastly improved and he is a different kid. I am going to set up an appointment with him on Thursday. I'll keep you updated on that aspect of treatment.
As far as nutrition, I need to order a crystalloid form mineral supplement. The crystalloid form is best absorbed by the body on a cellular level and has maximum benefits. I have added Psyllium Husk and Soy Protein Powder to our daily smoothie, in addition to the Yakult. The Psyllium Husk aids is cleansing the digestive tract and the Protein Powder adds a substantial amount of protein to the diet, which we need. I made sure to buy a brand that is organic and meets the strict standards of the Certified Identity Preservation Program. It is important to know that the vitamins and health products purchased are the purest available. There are a lot of companies out there that profit from marketing sub-standard products and rely on the consumer's ignorance. I trust the "Full Circle" brand of food and supplements. It is all organic and of course, more expensive, but worth it.
Daniel's behavior has improved. Not perfect, of course, but better. However, summer time is not as structured and demanding as school. The real test will come in August when he is forced to sit in a classroom and focus for six hours. I am trying to prepare him, as much as possible, for that event.
There is a doctor of chiropractics that is known for his ability to correct ADD/ADHD symptoms by balancing out the brain with specific exercises, music and glasses. I know it sounds very unconventional, but I've heard that it works. My cousin has a son who was on ADD medication. She, like me, decided that medication was not the way she wanted to go. So she took her son to see Dr. Phan. He has not been on medication since, his grades have vastly improved and he is a different kid. I am going to set up an appointment with him on Thursday. I'll keep you updated on that aspect of treatment.
As far as nutrition, I need to order a crystalloid form mineral supplement. The crystalloid form is best absorbed by the body on a cellular level and has maximum benefits. I have added Psyllium Husk and Soy Protein Powder to our daily smoothie, in addition to the Yakult. The Psyllium Husk aids is cleansing the digestive tract and the Protein Powder adds a substantial amount of protein to the diet, which we need. I made sure to buy a brand that is organic and meets the strict standards of the Certified Identity Preservation Program. It is important to know that the vitamins and health products purchased are the purest available. There are a lot of companies out there that profit from marketing sub-standard products and rely on the consumer's ignorance. I trust the "Full Circle" brand of food and supplements. It is all organic and of course, more expensive, but worth it.
Daniel's behavior has improved. Not perfect, of course, but better. However, summer time is not as structured and demanding as school. The real test will come in August when he is forced to sit in a classroom and focus for six hours. I am trying to prepare him, as much as possible, for that event.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Dinner Menu
Tonight is grocery shopping night. This is a much bigger task, now that we eat differently. The high desert is not exactly the best at providing health food stores. I do my best with what is availbale and pray that such a store opens soon. Here is our dinner menu for the work week:
Monday: Homemade oven roasted chicken, corn on the cob, summer spinach salad.
Tuesday: Fish tacos with fresh pico de gallo, queso fresco, cabbage and yogurt lime sauce.
Wednesday: Chicken tortilla soup with black beans, corn, veggies, sour cream, cheese and enchilada sauce.
Thursday: Lettuce wraps with thai peanut chicken, brown rice.
Friday: Roast beef, cous cous, steamed veggies, gravy.
Dessert will be fresh fruit or homemade juice pops. For now, we are not eliminating dairy. When we find out what Daniel is allergic to (if anything,) we will alter our menus. Until then, we are just focusing on eliminating anything processed, food dye, bleached flour, refined sugars and corn syrup.
Monday: Homemade oven roasted chicken, corn on the cob, summer spinach salad.
Tuesday: Fish tacos with fresh pico de gallo, queso fresco, cabbage and yogurt lime sauce.
Wednesday: Chicken tortilla soup with black beans, corn, veggies, sour cream, cheese and enchilada sauce.
Thursday: Lettuce wraps with thai peanut chicken, brown rice.
Friday: Roast beef, cous cous, steamed veggies, gravy.
Dessert will be fresh fruit or homemade juice pops. For now, we are not eliminating dairy. When we find out what Daniel is allergic to (if anything,) we will alter our menus. Until then, we are just focusing on eliminating anything processed, food dye, bleached flour, refined sugars and corn syrup.
Ditching The Doctor
Deciding whether to trust or credit a person is always an uncertain task. ~Aldrich Ames
I have decided that it is time to choose a new pediatrician. Sometimes, in life, you have to sever ties with people whom you lose trust in. I trusted our pediatrician with the well being of my children for almost ten years. I know that it is ultimately my job to make sure that my children are in good hands, but I honestly trusted his hands. After our visit to his office last week, then talking to other health care professionals, I am very disappointed in the lack of guidance he provided.
We should have been referred to a pediatric neurologist, allergist and ENT, long before my son was put on medication. I will claim ignorance. I was only trying to make the best of a rapidly worsening home life and failed to do enough research to know that he needed to rule out other medical possibilities, before diagnosing him. Now I know. Now I'm speaking up and he is not liking it. He has shot down my request to see the ENT. He shot down my request to see an allergist and gave me an order to do blood work. How can I possibly find the answers I seek if the doctor who is supposed to aid me in my quest, is creating road blocks?
I am sad to have to say goodbye, but it is necessary to find a doctor who will listen to my concerns, keep all options open and communicated and work with us, not against us.
I have decided that it is time to choose a new pediatrician. Sometimes, in life, you have to sever ties with people whom you lose trust in. I trusted our pediatrician with the well being of my children for almost ten years. I know that it is ultimately my job to make sure that my children are in good hands, but I honestly trusted his hands. After our visit to his office last week, then talking to other health care professionals, I am very disappointed in the lack of guidance he provided.
We should have been referred to a pediatric neurologist, allergist and ENT, long before my son was put on medication. I will claim ignorance. I was only trying to make the best of a rapidly worsening home life and failed to do enough research to know that he needed to rule out other medical possibilities, before diagnosing him. Now I know. Now I'm speaking up and he is not liking it. He has shot down my request to see the ENT. He shot down my request to see an allergist and gave me an order to do blood work. How can I possibly find the answers I seek if the doctor who is supposed to aid me in my quest, is creating road blocks?
I am sad to have to say goodbye, but it is necessary to find a doctor who will listen to my concerns, keep all options open and communicated and work with us, not against us.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Searching For Clues To An Answer That Does Not Yet Exist
No idea is so outlandish that it should not be considered with a searching but at the same time a steady eye. ~Winston Churchill
I've been scouring websites for any information on the possible causes of ADHD. It is just saddening to know that all of the possibilities out there are merely speculations. Research is being done, scientists all over the country are working to pinpoint the cause(s) of this disorder, but have not discovered one definite cause, to date. I did happen upon an interesting website that kind of summarizes all of the currently possible sources. Stillpoint Center For Health highlights these things in an easy to digest manner. Here are a few excerpts:
The etiology of ADHD is unclear, however theories abound. Neurological explanations claim that ADHD is due to some dysfunction in the brain. Indirect drug response research has been used to conclude that ADHD may be due to insufficient quantities of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, known as catecholamines. Biochemical studies and neurological testing of neurotransmitter metabolites in the urine have not, however, been able to document the specific role of catecholamines in ADHD.
Other researchers claim that there is reduced blood flow in the frontal lobe area of the brain of ADHD patients, causing lowered activity in this area (1). The frontal lobe is responsible for functions such as planning, initiative and ability to regulate behavior, and so reduced functioning may cause disruptions to these behaviors similar to ADHD characteristics. This was tested by Dr Alan Zametkin at the National Institute of Mental Health, who used positron emission tomography or PET scans to record the radioactivity of the brain following glucose ingestion. The deficit in glucose uptake and hence energy to the brain following a specific task in ADD subjects (8% lower than the control group) indicates a link between diminished frontal lobe activity and ADHD. ADHD behavior is described as responding to this situation by seeking out higher levels of stimulation to sufficiently engage and satisfy the brain and sensory centers.
Some theorists argue for the role of the Reticular Activating System of the brain stem in ADHD. The RAS regulates the level of arousal of a person, from waking consciousness to deep sleep. Impairment in this system may cause the ADHD problems with alertness. Larry Silver likens the problem to a ‘faulty filter system’, which cannot screen out irrelevant information or sensory stimuli as well as it should, leading to an overload of messages. Other experts believe that a malfunction in the communication feedback loop, which links the reticular activating system and frontal lobe, may be the cause of the disordered, inconsistent and erratic behavior typical of ADHD (2).
Some theorists argue for the role of the Reticular Activating System of the brain stem in ADHD. The RAS regulates the level of arousal of a person, from waking consciousness to deep sleep. Impairment in this system may cause the ADHD problems with alertness. Larry Silver likens the problem to a ‘faulty filter system’, which cannot screen out irrelevant information or sensory stimuli as well as it should, leading to an overload of messages. Other experts believe that a malfunction in the communication feedback loop, which links the reticular activating system and frontal lobe, may be the cause of the disordered, inconsistent and erratic behavior typical of ADHD (2).
While there is also an abundance of information on the nutritional aspects, I did not include them here. Please visit this site to read on about those and the many other possible factors. The information is very intriguing. It is also very frustrating because it confirms the fact that I may never be able to pinpoint the cause of my son's condition. In that case, we will just continue to treat his symptoms, naturally and to the best of our ability. It is all we can do, short of resorting back to the medication...which is not an option, in my mind.
I've been scouring websites for any information on the possible causes of ADHD. It is just saddening to know that all of the possibilities out there are merely speculations. Research is being done, scientists all over the country are working to pinpoint the cause(s) of this disorder, but have not discovered one definite cause, to date. I did happen upon an interesting website that kind of summarizes all of the currently possible sources. Stillpoint Center For Health highlights these things in an easy to digest manner. Here are a few excerpts:
The etiology of ADHD is unclear, however theories abound. Neurological explanations claim that ADHD is due to some dysfunction in the brain. Indirect drug response research has been used to conclude that ADHD may be due to insufficient quantities of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, known as catecholamines. Biochemical studies and neurological testing of neurotransmitter metabolites in the urine have not, however, been able to document the specific role of catecholamines in ADHD.
Other researchers claim that there is reduced blood flow in the frontal lobe area of the brain of ADHD patients, causing lowered activity in this area (1). The frontal lobe is responsible for functions such as planning, initiative and ability to regulate behavior, and so reduced functioning may cause disruptions to these behaviors similar to ADHD characteristics. This was tested by Dr Alan Zametkin at the National Institute of Mental Health, who used positron emission tomography or PET scans to record the radioactivity of the brain following glucose ingestion. The deficit in glucose uptake and hence energy to the brain following a specific task in ADD subjects (8% lower than the control group) indicates a link between diminished frontal lobe activity and ADHD. ADHD behavior is described as responding to this situation by seeking out higher levels of stimulation to sufficiently engage and satisfy the brain and sensory centers.
Some theorists argue for the role of the Reticular Activating System of the brain stem in ADHD. The RAS regulates the level of arousal of a person, from waking consciousness to deep sleep. Impairment in this system may cause the ADHD problems with alertness. Larry Silver likens the problem to a ‘faulty filter system’, which cannot screen out irrelevant information or sensory stimuli as well as it should, leading to an overload of messages. Other experts believe that a malfunction in the communication feedback loop, which links the reticular activating system and frontal lobe, may be the cause of the disordered, inconsistent and erratic behavior typical of ADHD (2).
Some theorists argue for the role of the Reticular Activating System of the brain stem in ADHD. The RAS regulates the level of arousal of a person, from waking consciousness to deep sleep. Impairment in this system may cause the ADHD problems with alertness. Larry Silver likens the problem to a ‘faulty filter system’, which cannot screen out irrelevant information or sensory stimuli as well as it should, leading to an overload of messages. Other experts believe that a malfunction in the communication feedback loop, which links the reticular activating system and frontal lobe, may be the cause of the disordered, inconsistent and erratic behavior typical of ADHD (2).
While there is also an abundance of information on the nutritional aspects, I did not include them here. Please visit this site to read on about those and the many other possible factors. The information is very intriguing. It is also very frustrating because it confirms the fact that I may never be able to pinpoint the cause of my son's condition. In that case, we will just continue to treat his symptoms, naturally and to the best of our ability. It is all we can do, short of resorting back to the medication...which is not an option, in my mind.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Onward
Journeys, like artists, are born and not made. A thousand differing circumstances contribute to them, few of them willed or determined by the will-whatever we may think. ~Lawrence Durrell
I am feeling a renewed sense of hope today, as Daniel has not experienced one anxiety attack, as of yet. I believe that our visit to the chirosport doctor, helped him tremendously. I stood and watched Doctor Cheratt work on Daniel, my eyes started to well up. Maybe it is because I have been friends with his wife since we were in kindergarten, but he is very concerned for Daniel's health. It is nice to have a person who knows so much about the human body and cares about something other than lining his pockets, give their time and energy to help my son. Someday, I hope I will be able to repay him for his love and kindness.
I have a dinner date with my husband tonight. The kids are going to stay at my mom's. It is a little nerve fraying to leave Daniel during such a rough time, but I know that my mom will take good care of him. Daniel knows to do the exercise that Dr. Cheratt taught him, if he gets dizzy. It seems to calm him and give him a sense of control over his body. Daniel has always been big on control. He will not ride roller coasters or do anything that he is not able to retain control during. Yet, he will do all kinds of dangerous stunts at home, without regard to safety.
I am already seeing some small changes in his outbursts. I'm not sure if it is because he is afraid to get dizzy when he tenses up, or if it is due to our new diet. Either way, I am thankful for the peaceful (relatively speaking) atmosphere of the house, today. I still have not heard from the psychologist's office and I'm not shocked. I think I will ride this withdrawal and when school begins, request a full comprehensive exam be done. I am told that the school is required, by law, to do so within thirty days of a written request by the student's parent. That is the game plan for now and in the meantime, we shall keep treading ground in search of possible causes. Next stop: Environmental Allergies.
I am feeling a renewed sense of hope today, as Daniel has not experienced one anxiety attack, as of yet. I believe that our visit to the chirosport doctor, helped him tremendously. I stood and watched Doctor Cheratt work on Daniel, my eyes started to well up. Maybe it is because I have been friends with his wife since we were in kindergarten, but he is very concerned for Daniel's health. It is nice to have a person who knows so much about the human body and cares about something other than lining his pockets, give their time and energy to help my son. Someday, I hope I will be able to repay him for his love and kindness.
I have a dinner date with my husband tonight. The kids are going to stay at my mom's. It is a little nerve fraying to leave Daniel during such a rough time, but I know that my mom will take good care of him. Daniel knows to do the exercise that Dr. Cheratt taught him, if he gets dizzy. It seems to calm him and give him a sense of control over his body. Daniel has always been big on control. He will not ride roller coasters or do anything that he is not able to retain control during. Yet, he will do all kinds of dangerous stunts at home, without regard to safety.
I am already seeing some small changes in his outbursts. I'm not sure if it is because he is afraid to get dizzy when he tenses up, or if it is due to our new diet. Either way, I am thankful for the peaceful (relatively speaking) atmosphere of the house, today. I still have not heard from the psychologist's office and I'm not shocked. I think I will ride this withdrawal and when school begins, request a full comprehensive exam be done. I am told that the school is required, by law, to do so within thirty days of a written request by the student's parent. That is the game plan for now and in the meantime, we shall keep treading ground in search of possible causes. Next stop: Environmental Allergies.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
An Answer
We grow in time to trust the future for our answers.~ Ruth Benedict
Today was a much better day. I prayed for strength and God delivered. I prayed that Daniel would have peace and God delivered. There were much fewer panic attacks and far less dizziness. God also delivered an unexpected gift...an answer.
The phone rang at about 3 pm, today. It was the voice of a girl who I knew in high school. We have chatted a few times, lately. Her son was also diagnosed with ADHD. She knows my situation and is just as determined to find answers to end this battle, as I am. Her information brought me a wave of relief, as she explained that Daniel's latest symptoms were the result of withdraw of the Focalin XR. Apparently, the medicine must be gradually tapered off. Stopping, cold turkey, produces effects similar to a drug addicts withdraw symptoms.
I told Daniel, right away, what I had found out. His little blue eyes filled up with tears and he whispered, "So, I'm not gonna die?" The poor little guy! I just hugged him and reassured him that he was going to be fine. The road will be bumpy for awhile. He was so scared to even have a bowel movement, today, for fear of passing out if he pushed. It took a solid 70 minutes of sitting on the toilet, praying together and convincing, to get him to relax and go. Seriously. I kept having to run out and check on the kids, only to hear him screaming that he was going to pass out. He made me sit by the toilet with the phone, ready to dial 911. It was sad and not too pleasant smelling. Mothers will do the darndest things for their kids.
I tucked him in, tonight, with the promise that he would be able to call me for any reason. At least he can rest easier, knowing that this too, shall pass.
Running on Empty
There is perhaps nothing so bad and so dangerous in life as fear.~ Jawaharlal Nehru
I am not ashamed to say that I'm afraid. I'm scared to death. I slept beside my son, last night, because he was too afraid to close his eyes. He believed that if he allowed himself to fall asleep, that he would never wake up. This is how we ended a day full of anxiety, dizziness, headaches and injuries. The doctor provided us with no answers. He said that these symptoms were not characteristic of Focalin XR withdraw. We got paperwork to draw blood and test for allergies. We got a referral to a psychologist. We left the office, no more at peace than we arrived.
What is going on with my son? Is this connected to being off of the medication? I cannot find any answers to my questions. Has anyone else experienced these kinds of symptoms when discontinuing Focalin XR? Is this a whole new set of problems that coincidentally arrived as we decided to take our son off of the Focalin? I am going to take Daniel into urgent care, today, if the dizziness and headaches persist. My mommy instincts tell me that something is not right. I truly believe that God gives us moms instincts for a reason.
I told my husband, this morning, that I need more support in this. Although I know he agrees with doing things naturally and finding answers, I feel like I'm the only one doing the work. I am at home, with seven kids. I'm the one digging for possible answers, making Dr. appointments, trying to calm him during anxiety attacks, making sure he eats right, conducting the tests, talking to people, reading the books. It is all on me. I'm so mentally and emotionally exhausted that I feel like crying all the time. My husband told me that I overprotect and baby Daniel. Maybe that is true, but I cannot help doing so. I feel that I need to counteract my husband. He is so hard on Daniel and often acts like he forgets that Daniel has a disorder. It is my job, as a mom, to over protect, right?
I don't know. I feel so lost, at this point. My mind is swimming with thoughts. I am running on empty, in the energy area. My hair badly needs to be washed. My house is thrashed. My cupboards are empty. I know how horrid that sounds to admit those things, but I feel the need to be honest. This struggle is not easy on any one. Our home school summer program has gone to the wayside, these last few days. All I can do is try to focus on finding answers to help Daniel. I've got to get up the energy to get my act together and go shopping for food, take a shower, clean the house, etc... God, please be my source of energy today. I can't do it on my own.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
The Results Are In
A thinker sees his own actions as experiments and questions--as attempts to find out something. Success and failure are for him answers above all.
Friedrich Nietzsche
This morning, we got the answer to our question as to whether milk was the culprit of Daniel's ADHD symptoms. I gave him both milk and ice cream for breakfast (he was so giddy to be able to eat ice cream again,) and then observed him. Nothing that matched the list of allergic reactions, occurred. So milk is off of our list of possible offenders.
I am taking Daniel in to see our pediatrician, today. He started having, what seems like, anxiety attacks. They have happened twice since discontinuing his meds. Today, is by far, the worst I've seen him experience. We had to leave the park and come home. He is sitting next to me, as I type this. Every so often, the "weird feeling" comes back. He gets really pale, starts shaking and starts to panic. I try to calm him down, but it doesn't seem to help. I finally put on a movie to try and take his mind off of his anxiety. We cannot be seen by the doctor until three thirty this afternoon. I'm very afraid. I hate to see him suffering. I have to wonder if I'm making his life better, or worse. I have the purest of intentions, to make his life a better. But this is making me doubt my methods. I just have to pray that God intercedes and helps to calm my son during this rough time. I feel so helpless.
Friedrich Nietzsche
This morning, we got the answer to our question as to whether milk was the culprit of Daniel's ADHD symptoms. I gave him both milk and ice cream for breakfast (he was so giddy to be able to eat ice cream again,) and then observed him. Nothing that matched the list of allergic reactions, occurred. So milk is off of our list of possible offenders.
I am taking Daniel in to see our pediatrician, today. He started having, what seems like, anxiety attacks. They have happened twice since discontinuing his meds. Today, is by far, the worst I've seen him experience. We had to leave the park and come home. He is sitting next to me, as I type this. Every so often, the "weird feeling" comes back. He gets really pale, starts shaking and starts to panic. I try to calm him down, but it doesn't seem to help. I finally put on a movie to try and take his mind off of his anxiety. We cannot be seen by the doctor until three thirty this afternoon. I'm very afraid. I hate to see him suffering. I have to wonder if I'm making his life better, or worse. I have the purest of intentions, to make his life a better. But this is making me doubt my methods. I just have to pray that God intercedes and helps to calm my son during this rough time. I feel so helpless.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Almost There
The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.
Chinese Proverb
We have been on our quest for answers and results, for a week. It has been a roller coaster, to say the least. We have encountered a lot of trials, many positive results and a lot of people who share our struggles with this monster. There were moments that my heart ached, so badly, to watch my son battle the desire to eat like everyone else, or suppress his urge to completely lose control and beat on a sibling. He is trying. He really is. We are all trying and that is all we can do.
Tomorrow will be the milk allergy testing day. I have not given Daniel any milk products for 6 days. Tomorrow morning, he will eat only milk products for breakfast. I have to monitor his behavior and physical reaction, to find out whether is allergic to milk. Some of the signs I will be watching for are:
Chinese Proverb
We have been on our quest for answers and results, for a week. It has been a roller coaster, to say the least. We have encountered a lot of trials, many positive results and a lot of people who share our struggles with this monster. There were moments that my heart ached, so badly, to watch my son battle the desire to eat like everyone else, or suppress his urge to completely lose control and beat on a sibling. He is trying. He really is. We are all trying and that is all we can do.
Tomorrow will be the milk allergy testing day. I have not given Daniel any milk products for 6 days. Tomorrow morning, he will eat only milk products for breakfast. I have to monitor his behavior and physical reaction, to find out whether is allergic to milk. Some of the signs I will be watching for are:
- marked hyperactivity
- compulsive actions
- mood swings
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- reddening of the ears
- nausea
- runny nose
- swelling
- vomiting
These signs of allergic reaction will be visible within 20 minutes to an hour after consumption. If he displays any of these signs, then an allergy to milk is highly possible and will be eliminated from his diet. Then, we will move on to the next possibly allergen...nuts.
On a side note:
Daniel did well in sticking to his diet, this weekend. He went to see a movie for his friend's birthday. I spoke with his friend's mom and gave her the list of no-no foods. She seemed to understand. However, I found out that he had pink lemonade. Pink lemonade has red food dye in it. It just goes to show that many people do not consider the possibility of food dye in most items, unless they are put in a similar position that forces them to be more conscious. I cannot possibly be upset, of course. I need to better educate Daniel on how to be vigilant of food dye. I am going to make it seem like a detective case, so that he will be more willing to participate. A large part of getting kids to cooperate in anything, is to make it seem like a game or challenge. We shall see how well it works in this case!
Friday, June 13, 2008
In A Pickle For Dinner?
"Being the best I can be is really sucking the life out of me."~ me
Yeah...I'm exhausted. Having the kids all home 24/7 is taking a lot of energy and tons of patience. I've never been a patient person, but I'm learning out of necessity (and the will to avoid becoming one of those moms you see on the news who drown their kids.) The newness of the dietary changes have worn off and the kids are looking at me like, "Okay...it was fun for one day but enough is enough. Hand over the candy, lady!"
The chicken I had purchased had turned bad before its exp. date. What is a mother to do when the usual plan B is a quick trip to the golden arches and it is no longer an option? I seriously panicked. We were low on our food supply. I had to wrack my brain. God sent me an email in the form of a Papa John's advertisement. It offered two large pizzas for 22 dollars. The best part is....you can order whole wheat crust. I have never loved the Italians more than the moment I realized that I could still have an easy dinner option that would not ruin our whole new way of eating. The test would be whether or not the kids would actually eat a whole wheat pizza.
Three and a half pieces later, Daniel was stuffed and ready for "just a little salad." Obviously, it wasn't too nasty. I tried a piece. Honestly, it wasn't the exact same as a regular pizza crust, but it was pretty darn close! I was so pleased to see the kids scarfing down dinner, unaware of the change in crust. I learned to always have a back up plan for dinner, or the number to a pizza place that offers healthy alternatives. While I'm sure it was not organic and perfectly healthy, it was the closest thing I could get my hands on, before the natives grew hungry and restless!
I will be staying at my Grandma's house with my daughters tomorrow night. I am a little anxious to see how my husband does with the new responsibility of providing only approved foods. He cares tremendously about Daniel's health, so I'm sure he will make a full fledged effort to stick to the diet. I will leave a little note of reminders, just in case ;)
Day Four
"It is courage, courage, courage, that raises the blood of life to crimson splendor. Live bravely and present a brave front to adversity." Horace
Yesterday was the first time Daniel really experienced what it means to have to go without a food item that he really wants. It killed me. We stopped at Starbucks to use a gift card. Everyone got to order a blended vanilla bean drink, as a reward for their diligence in eating healthier. (The doctor told me to be sure and allow some sugar on occasion, so as not to create an obsession.) Since Starbucks did not make a drink using soy milk, Daniel had to find something non-dairy to order. He was fuming. I mean kicking the seat, screaming, saying that he wished everyone would die, kind of fuming. I tried to suggest some other items, but he wouldn't hear of it. I was not sure what the right action to take was at that point. I calmly told him to pick something else, or nothing at all. We left Starbucks with six happy kids and one empty handed, angry Daniel.
In other news, I'm trying to find out if there are any side effects to discontinuing the Focalin XR. Last night, Daniel was so tired, but he kept complaining that his heart was beating weird. Since the medication was a stimulant, it would not surprise me to learn that this is normal. I still have yet to find a concrete answer. I plan on calling the doctor today, to find out. I did find, in my hunt, an excerpt from the original packaging of Focalin XR. I read it very carefully, for the second time in our dealings with ADHD and found it shocking. Why didn't I notice this before? Here is what is says:
"The safety and efficacy of Focalin XR in children under 6 years old have not been established. Long-term effects of Focalin in children have not been well established (see WARNINGS ) .
In a study conducted in young rats, racemic methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 100 mg/kg/day for 9 weeks, starting early in the postnatal period (Postnatal Day 7) and continuing through sexual maturity (Postnatal Week 10). When these animals were tested as adults (Postnatal Weeks 13-14), decreased spontaneous locomotor activity was observed in males and females previously treated with 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 6 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] of racemic methylphenidate on a mg/m 2 basis) or greater, and a deficit in the acquisition of a specific learning task was seen in females exposed to the highest dose (12 times the racemic MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). The no effect level for juvenile neurobehavioral development in rats was 5 mg/kg/day (half the racemic MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). The clinical significance of the long-term behavioral effects observed in rats is unknown."
Regardless of the fact that the study was done on rats, this is not kosher. Decreased spontaneous locomotor activity? As in...."Hey watch out for that car! Ohhhh, he wasn't fast enough." I really want my son to be able to spontaneously be able to react to danger and get out of its way, if the need arises. Also, who knows what long term effects will be. Apparently, the manufacturer felt okay with not knowing that tid bit of info. I, however, am not. This was not the only astounding information on adverse effects and side effects. If your child is on Focalin XR, go look it up. Take the time to read the mind boggling amount of info on the package insert. It will shock you.
Yesterday was the first time Daniel really experienced what it means to have to go without a food item that he really wants. It killed me. We stopped at Starbucks to use a gift card. Everyone got to order a blended vanilla bean drink, as a reward for their diligence in eating healthier. (The doctor told me to be sure and allow some sugar on occasion, so as not to create an obsession.) Since Starbucks did not make a drink using soy milk, Daniel had to find something non-dairy to order. He was fuming. I mean kicking the seat, screaming, saying that he wished everyone would die, kind of fuming. I tried to suggest some other items, but he wouldn't hear of it. I was not sure what the right action to take was at that point. I calmly told him to pick something else, or nothing at all. We left Starbucks with six happy kids and one empty handed, angry Daniel.
In other news, I'm trying to find out if there are any side effects to discontinuing the Focalin XR. Last night, Daniel was so tired, but he kept complaining that his heart was beating weird. Since the medication was a stimulant, it would not surprise me to learn that this is normal. I still have yet to find a concrete answer. I plan on calling the doctor today, to find out. I did find, in my hunt, an excerpt from the original packaging of Focalin XR. I read it very carefully, for the second time in our dealings with ADHD and found it shocking. Why didn't I notice this before? Here is what is says:
"The safety and efficacy of Focalin XR in children under 6 years old have not been established. Long-term effects of Focalin in children have not been well established (see WARNINGS ) .
In a study conducted in young rats, racemic methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 100 mg/kg/day for 9 weeks, starting early in the postnatal period (Postnatal Day 7) and continuing through sexual maturity (Postnatal Week 10). When these animals were tested as adults (Postnatal Weeks 13-14), decreased spontaneous locomotor activity was observed in males and females previously treated with 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 6 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] of racemic methylphenidate on a mg/m 2 basis) or greater, and a deficit in the acquisition of a specific learning task was seen in females exposed to the highest dose (12 times the racemic MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). The no effect level for juvenile neurobehavioral development in rats was 5 mg/kg/day (half the racemic MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). The clinical significance of the long-term behavioral effects observed in rats is unknown."
Regardless of the fact that the study was done on rats, this is not kosher. Decreased spontaneous locomotor activity? As in...."Hey watch out for that car! Ohhhh, he wasn't fast enough." I really want my son to be able to spontaneously be able to react to danger and get out of its way, if the need arises. Also, who knows what long term effects will be. Apparently, the manufacturer felt okay with not knowing that tid bit of info. I, however, am not. This was not the only astounding information on adverse effects and side effects. If your child is on Focalin XR, go look it up. Take the time to read the mind boggling amount of info on the package insert. It will shock you.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Day Three
" When the mind and heart have decided to go for a mutual compromise, the word 'no' vanishes. Life needs such deals when you have decided to sacrifice to achieve."-Sivakumar Madathil Oravil
Our new way of eating has certainly been a sacrifice. I have realized that convenience drives us to make many of the choices that we do. We live in an age of faster, better, easier. We seek to find ways to cut corners, save time, do more. What we fail to realize is that in doing so, we often compromise quality of life. In our case, it was choosing to medicate our child in exchange for the convenience of being able to eat whatever we wanted and still get the desired results of his better behavior. At what cost were we doing this? At the cost of his well being. We were pumping him full of legal stimulant drugs, food dyes, refined sugar, artificial ingredients, preservatives...all of which are synonymous with carcinogens. Carcinogens are cancer causing agents. To put it simply, we were choosing to vastly increase our son's risk of cancer for the sake of convenience. Doctors will not tell you this, but it is the ugly truth.
Our diet changes have meant the end of convenience. Even something as simple as running errands becomes a pain in the rear when the kids get hungry and you do not have the option of stopping at the nearest burger joint. Planning is key in our new way of eating. I have to make sure that we always have approved snacks on hand. Dinner cannot be a quick affair. Meat has to be prepared in advance, because ordering take out is no longer feasible. Every thing we put into our mouths is a conscious choice. It has become so much more than a way of eating. It is a way of life.
Daniel spent the night at a friend's house, recently. I told the mom about our new endeavor, just so that she would have the heads up if he acted out. Being a former teacher, she was fully aware of the ADHD dietary rules, so I didn't have to worry. I did forget to tell her that we are cutting out milk until next week. My forgetfulness could have meant that we had to start over in our allergy testing. Fortunately, Daniel knew his limitations and gracefully declined the cheese he was offered, siting his need to stay away from dairy products. I was so proud of him! It shows that he is dedicated to finding the answers, as much as his Dad and I are. It shows that he has self control. It shows that there is hope. Our minds have made the choice to embark on this journey and it is clear that our hearts are willing to sacrifice the desire to have what they want. Hopefully we can keep our hearts in line with our rationale.
Our new way of eating has certainly been a sacrifice. I have realized that convenience drives us to make many of the choices that we do. We live in an age of faster, better, easier. We seek to find ways to cut corners, save time, do more. What we fail to realize is that in doing so, we often compromise quality of life. In our case, it was choosing to medicate our child in exchange for the convenience of being able to eat whatever we wanted and still get the desired results of his better behavior. At what cost were we doing this? At the cost of his well being. We were pumping him full of legal stimulant drugs, food dyes, refined sugar, artificial ingredients, preservatives...all of which are synonymous with carcinogens. Carcinogens are cancer causing agents. To put it simply, we were choosing to vastly increase our son's risk of cancer for the sake of convenience. Doctors will not tell you this, but it is the ugly truth.
Our diet changes have meant the end of convenience. Even something as simple as running errands becomes a pain in the rear when the kids get hungry and you do not have the option of stopping at the nearest burger joint. Planning is key in our new way of eating. I have to make sure that we always have approved snacks on hand. Dinner cannot be a quick affair. Meat has to be prepared in advance, because ordering take out is no longer feasible. Every thing we put into our mouths is a conscious choice. It has become so much more than a way of eating. It is a way of life.
Daniel spent the night at a friend's house, recently. I told the mom about our new endeavor, just so that she would have the heads up if he acted out. Being a former teacher, she was fully aware of the ADHD dietary rules, so I didn't have to worry. I did forget to tell her that we are cutting out milk until next week. My forgetfulness could have meant that we had to start over in our allergy testing. Fortunately, Daniel knew his limitations and gracefully declined the cheese he was offered, siting his need to stay away from dairy products. I was so proud of him! It shows that he is dedicated to finding the answers, as much as his Dad and I are. It shows that he has self control. It shows that there is hope. Our minds have made the choice to embark on this journey and it is clear that our hearts are willing to sacrifice the desire to have what they want. Hopefully we can keep our hearts in line with our rationale.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Alien Gut Smoothie- Yummy!
Part of our quest to battle the ADHD monster, is eating well. Yes, I know what you're thinking, "My kids eats only chicken nuggets and soda. How am I going to get him to eat well without the use of a straight jacket and a vice?" It can be done. Kids will eventually break down and eat what is offered to them, when they get hungry enough. Until then, they will not starve while fasting in protest of health food. There is a way, however, to make food more enticing. This little concoction was created with Daniel's input, to make him feel like he has control over his food choices (even though the control is very limited.) There are a few key ingredients that I add to this smoothie, that are known to balance out the body's digestive tract and help create greater health:
I buy this at the grocery store, in the dairy aisle. Here is an excerpt from the website:
"Research has shown that you can keep your digestive system in good health by eating a balanced diet and consuming products which contain Yakult’s beneficial bacteria strain, Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota.
Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota reaches the intestines alive and produces lactic acid, a substance which promotes regularity through intestinal balance.
"Yakult" is a quality source of Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota. In fact, each bottle of "Yakult" contains over 8 billion of them to help keep you regular.
However, along with the daily consumption of one bottle of "Yakult" recommended by company founder Dr. Shirota, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and observe a diet that is rich in fiber."
Then, I add "Green Machine" from the Naked Juice line of drinks:
Green Machine provides the following:
apples, bananas, pineapple, mango, kiwi, broccoli, spirulena, spinach, blue green algae and garlic.
Sounds gross... tastes awesome! I mix in one whole banana for added flavor and consistency and a bottle of Yakult. Add ice and any other fruit your child likes, then blend. Daniel named it Alien Gut Smoothie because of the green color. Try it out with your kids and let them name the drink. Just be sure not to let them read the ingredient list!
I buy this at the grocery store, in the dairy aisle. Here is an excerpt from the website:
"Research has shown that you can keep your digestive system in good health by eating a balanced diet and consuming products which contain Yakult’s beneficial bacteria strain, Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota.
Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota reaches the intestines alive and produces lactic acid, a substance which promotes regularity through intestinal balance.
"Yakult" is a quality source of Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota. In fact, each bottle of "Yakult" contains over 8 billion of them to help keep you regular.
However, along with the daily consumption of one bottle of "Yakult" recommended by company founder Dr. Shirota, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and observe a diet that is rich in fiber."
Then, I add "Green Machine" from the Naked Juice line of drinks:
Green Machine provides the following:
apples, bananas, pineapple, mango, kiwi, broccoli, spirulena, spinach, blue green algae and garlic.
Sounds gross... tastes awesome! I mix in one whole banana for added flavor and consistency and a bottle of Yakult. Add ice and any other fruit your child likes, then blend. Daniel named it Alien Gut Smoothie because of the green color. Try it out with your kids and let them name the drink. Just be sure not to let them read the ingredient list!
Activity To Induce Relaxation
"When faced with a challenge, look for a way, not a way out." -David Weatherford
Since making the decision to take Daniel off the Focalin XR, we have to look for a way to deal with his symptoms, until we figure out the cause of his ADHD. One of Daniel's biggest problems, is being able to calm himself. He snaps at the drop of a hat. He is extremely impulsive and once wound up, it is hard to unwind. He does not posses the ability or self control it takes to calm himself. It is my job to teach him to use relaxation techniques. One of his favorites, is a bedtime ritual that I perform. We call it "Blue Light."
Since making the decision to take Daniel off the Focalin XR, we have to look for a way to deal with his symptoms, until we figure out the cause of his ADHD. One of Daniel's biggest problems, is being able to calm himself. He snaps at the drop of a hat. He is extremely impulsive and once wound up, it is hard to unwind. He does not posses the ability or self control it takes to calm himself. It is my job to teach him to use relaxation techniques. One of his favorites, is a bedtime ritual that I perform. We call it "Blue Light."
- Have your child lay in his/her bed with eyes closed.
- Have them take 3 slow, deep breaths.
- *Use your hands to touch each body part that you send the blue light to. You can lightly stroke your child's forehead or whatever body part the blue light is at, as you talk. The healing power of touch is tremendously beneficial to children. This is so calming to Daniel.
- Use a soft, quiet voice to guide your child through the activity. From here on out, I will speak in a monologue, so you get a better idea of what to say:
"Picture a soft, blue light. Imagine that the light is warm and relaxing. Every body part that the light travels through, will relax that part of your body. When the light moves to a new body part, let it just sink into the bed and get heavy. The light will help you relax. Ready?
The light will start at the top of your head. It is soft and warm. Your head is very relaxed. As you breathe, let out all of your worries. Breathe in good thoughts. Each breath in will bring peace, and each breath out will release stress. Now relax your face. Let your eyes get heavy. Feel your mouth relax. The blue light is traveling down your face. As it moves, let it relax you.
The light is moving down your face into your neck. Your neck is relaxing. Let it get heavy and sink into your pillow..."
Do this for each body part (minus the groin area, of course.) Move the blue light all the way down to his/her toes, then travel back up, ending at the head. The power of suggestion will help them to relax completely. These visualization techniques will help to take their minds off of stress, school, or whatever plagues their mind at night. You can tailor this activity to your child's needs and time constraints. The whole activity takes me ten minutes. It is a ten minutes well spent. Daniel drifts off quickly and has a more restful sleep, it seems. Keep repeating the words "calm; relax; heavy, peaceful;" and incorporate them into the activity. End the activity (if your child is still awake,) with deep, slow breaths. Instruct them to listen to each breath as it goes in and out. It will continue to keep their mind focused on relaxing. You can use anything, not just a blue light. I chose a blue light to represent peace. Your child might want to picture a moon, a heart or something that makes them feel calm. You can teach your child, over time, to do this activity whenever he/she feels stressed. Soon, they will be able to guide themselves through it. I like to do it for Daniel because it is ten minutes that I get to bond with just him. Let me know what kind of results you get!
Day Two
" Crystallize in your mind what you want from the future but remember it's the moment that gets you there." -Michael Burkill
I was at a doctor's appointment with two of my kids, yesterday. This doctor was an ear, nose and throat specialist. Even though Daniel was not the patient, I felt a nudging in my heart to ask him what his opinion was on ADHD and any connection it might have to the adenoids. You see, in starting this blog, I have already received many tips from people who either suffer from ADHD symptoms or know someone who does. One such tip was from a lady who had simply heard that there was a connection between the adenoids and ADHD. This intrigued me and caused that nudging feeling I just told you about.
I know that doctors can get irritated when a patient asks questions that are unrelated to the reason for the visit. Their time is precious, after all. I knew I was taking a chance in asking his opinion, but I just had to. Luckily, he did not seem to mind at all. He told me that the adenoids, when enlarged, cause sleep apnea. Many children who suffer from ADHD symptoms, are in fact suffering from a lack of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Tired children are hyperactive children. He suggested a sleep study be done for Daniel, followed by a visit to his office to check the adenoids. I wanted to hug the man. Maybe this is not an answer, but it is a possibility. All I have to go on right now are questions and possibilities.
Now, I'm not saying that Daniel exhibits sleep apnea. He has, however, had restless sleep since he was a baby. He used to hold his breath in order to calm himself at bedtime. He has a hard time relaxing and always has. In fact, many nights, I still have to lay by him and lead him through a relaxation technique I learned, called "Blue Light." It works wonders. He's always asleep by the time the blue light reaches his toes. He is a child that so badly wants to relax, but cannot seem to do it on his own. So this whole sleep apnea possibility, might hold some truth for our case. I'm still weeding out possible allergens, limiting our diets and continuing the answer search, as well. Hopefully, with diligence, we will arrive at a combination of things that work for us.
I was at a doctor's appointment with two of my kids, yesterday. This doctor was an ear, nose and throat specialist. Even though Daniel was not the patient, I felt a nudging in my heart to ask him what his opinion was on ADHD and any connection it might have to the adenoids. You see, in starting this blog, I have already received many tips from people who either suffer from ADHD symptoms or know someone who does. One such tip was from a lady who had simply heard that there was a connection between the adenoids and ADHD. This intrigued me and caused that nudging feeling I just told you about.
I know that doctors can get irritated when a patient asks questions that are unrelated to the reason for the visit. Their time is precious, after all. I knew I was taking a chance in asking his opinion, but I just had to. Luckily, he did not seem to mind at all. He told me that the adenoids, when enlarged, cause sleep apnea. Many children who suffer from ADHD symptoms, are in fact suffering from a lack of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Tired children are hyperactive children. He suggested a sleep study be done for Daniel, followed by a visit to his office to check the adenoids. I wanted to hug the man. Maybe this is not an answer, but it is a possibility. All I have to go on right now are questions and possibilities.
Now, I'm not saying that Daniel exhibits sleep apnea. He has, however, had restless sleep since he was a baby. He used to hold his breath in order to calm himself at bedtime. He has a hard time relaxing and always has. In fact, many nights, I still have to lay by him and lead him through a relaxation technique I learned, called "Blue Light." It works wonders. He's always asleep by the time the blue light reaches his toes. He is a child that so badly wants to relax, but cannot seem to do it on his own. So this whole sleep apnea possibility, might hold some truth for our case. I'm still weeding out possible allergens, limiting our diets and continuing the answer search, as well. Hopefully, with diligence, we will arrive at a combination of things that work for us.
YESTERDAY'S FOOD LIST
- Brown Sugar Shredded Wheat w/ whole milk
- grapes
- pretzels
- peanuts
- Wheat Thins (I discovered, too late, that they have corn syrup in them...oopsie.)
- String Cheese
- Pears
- Water (lots of it, as we were at the park and it was hot.)
- Grape juice mixed with water
- Meatless Spaghetti
- Garlic Bread (I made our own on wheat bread. The kids complained.)
- Salad (Daniel likes his w/out any dressing. Go figure!)
- Milk
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Day One
"Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed." - Corita Kent
I truly felt successful when we made it through the first day of our new diet. It was bad enough that Daniel has been off of the Focalin for a few days now, but taking away sugar on top of it and limiting what he eats, made him beastly. I had to keep reminding myself that his behavior was the product of his body's reaction to being off the medicine. It was extremely difficult, especially when he would haul off and hit his siblings, for no reason. I still had to hold him accountable for his actions, but I knew that his anger was elevated by no fault of his own.
We have started the dietary changes by removing refined sugar (as much as possible for now,) form our house. I am a sugar freak, so it is going to be hard on everyone. We decided to do this as a family, and that includes me. So I'm going to have to deal with it. By lunchtime, the kids were like drug addicts, trying to find candy, cookies or anything sweet to satisfy their cravings. It is amazing how addicted we are to sugar, without even realizing it. By dinner time, I felt like crap. It was probably my body's way of saying, "Give me sugar or suffer!" The kids were sick of eating healthy, but started asking for fruit, after realizing that there wasn't any other option. I have to limit Daniel's fruit intake, so he was angry about that, as well.
We are going to start trying to single out allergens. In my research, I have found that many ADHD sufferers are merely reacting to a hypersensitvity in diet or environment. We will start by eliminating milk for seven days, starting today. Then, next Tuesday, I will feed him only milk products for breakfast and watch for a reaction. It will be visible within 20 minutes to an hour. If he is allergic to milk, it will be obvious. There are physical and behavioral reactions. I will discuss those in a later post. I'm hoping that we have an easier time today, but only time itself will tell. I will end this post with a list of our diet for the previous day. This will help me keep track of possible allergens and give anyone who wants to follow a stricter diet, some idea of where to start.
I truly felt successful when we made it through the first day of our new diet. It was bad enough that Daniel has been off of the Focalin for a few days now, but taking away sugar on top of it and limiting what he eats, made him beastly. I had to keep reminding myself that his behavior was the product of his body's reaction to being off the medicine. It was extremely difficult, especially when he would haul off and hit his siblings, for no reason. I still had to hold him accountable for his actions, but I knew that his anger was elevated by no fault of his own.
We have started the dietary changes by removing refined sugar (as much as possible for now,) form our house. I am a sugar freak, so it is going to be hard on everyone. We decided to do this as a family, and that includes me. So I'm going to have to deal with it. By lunchtime, the kids were like drug addicts, trying to find candy, cookies or anything sweet to satisfy their cravings. It is amazing how addicted we are to sugar, without even realizing it. By dinner time, I felt like crap. It was probably my body's way of saying, "Give me sugar or suffer!" The kids were sick of eating healthy, but started asking for fruit, after realizing that there wasn't any other option. I have to limit Daniel's fruit intake, so he was angry about that, as well.
We are going to start trying to single out allergens. In my research, I have found that many ADHD sufferers are merely reacting to a hypersensitvity in diet or environment. We will start by eliminating milk for seven days, starting today. Then, next Tuesday, I will feed him only milk products for breakfast and watch for a reaction. It will be visible within 20 minutes to an hour. If he is allergic to milk, it will be obvious. There are physical and behavioral reactions. I will discuss those in a later post. I'm hoping that we have an easier time today, but only time itself will tell. I will end this post with a list of our diet for the previous day. This will help me keep track of possible allergens and give anyone who wants to follow a stricter diet, some idea of where to start.
- Oatmeal (not instant), butter (provides fatty acids,) and honey or brown sugar
- milk
- orange juice
- veggie tray w/ broccoli, carrots, tomatoes and celery
- sour cream and ranch dip mix
- pretzels
- water
- peanut butter and honey on seven grain bread (I buy the brand made w/out corn syrup)
- pears
- popcorn
- baked potatoes w/ cheese sauce (homemade w/ wheat flour)
- mixed veggies (I do not use canned as it is less healthy)
- shredded chicken (whole, cooked chicken)
- milk or water
- peanuts (for a bedtime snack)
- water
Sunday, June 8, 2008
The First Step
The first step in doing anything in life, is to make the decision to do it. We, as a family, have decided to battle the ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) that plagues our son, Daniel. It is not an easy battle to fight. We have been dealing with the symptoms of ADHD ever since Daniel was a few years old. We have even gone as far as trying medication, to treat him. Medication, however, is not the same as treatment. Medication is only a band aid, in this case, a possibly addictive one. Though the medicine was effective in helping him focus, it never sat well in my mind or my heart.
So here we are, eight years into Daniel's life, with a sincere hope that we can find the answers we seek to help our son. So far, he is the only one, out of our seven children, that shows signs of the disorder. We pray that none of the other children will have to struggle as Daniel has. It is heart wrenching to witness such a innately sweet boy, fight to gain control over his anger, anxiety and impulsive nature. I have faith that God will lead us to a place that holds the answer. Whatever it takes...however difficult it may be...we are committed to this cause for the sake of our son and his future.
I have chosen to document our journey, in order to help others, share ideas and spread the knowledge that we prayerfully gain through this experience. Please feel free to share your thoughts and knowledge with us, as we progress towards our desired destination. Your input is greatly appreciated and your stories are always welcome. And now...on to the next step, which is talking to Daniel about our decision to take him off of the medication, changing the way we eat and what it means for his life.
So here we are, eight years into Daniel's life, with a sincere hope that we can find the answers we seek to help our son. So far, he is the only one, out of our seven children, that shows signs of the disorder. We pray that none of the other children will have to struggle as Daniel has. It is heart wrenching to witness such a innately sweet boy, fight to gain control over his anger, anxiety and impulsive nature. I have faith that God will lead us to a place that holds the answer. Whatever it takes...however difficult it may be...we are committed to this cause for the sake of our son and his future.
I have chosen to document our journey, in order to help others, share ideas and spread the knowledge that we prayerfully gain through this experience. Please feel free to share your thoughts and knowledge with us, as we progress towards our desired destination. Your input is greatly appreciated and your stories are always welcome. And now...on to the next step, which is talking to Daniel about our decision to take him off of the medication, changing the way we eat and what it means for his life.
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