Hyperactivity can be triggered by nutritional deficiencies and toxic accumulations of certain heavy metals in the body. Because their bodies are smaller, and because their nervous systems are still in early stages of development, children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of element imbalances.

Lead is a potent toxin very commonly associated with a host of neurobehavioral problems in children, including hyperactivity, attention deficit, and other learning disorders. A leading expert on the effects of lead toxicity in children, Dr. H.L. Needlemen of the University of Pittsburgh Medical School has conducted scores of studies over the last 20 years clearly establishing the link between lead levels in children and specific hyperactive and attention deficit behavior traits.1-4 Follow-up studies indicate that these effects often persist into adulthood.5

A common misconception is that lead exposure is only a problem for urban children of low socioeconomic status. Actually, lead toxicity can affect children of all backgrounds, because sources of exposure include not only lead-based paint, but contaminated soil, dust, food, and water--and may begin with prenatal exposure in the womb. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, an estimated one out of every six children in the United States has blood lead levels in the toxic range.6

What's more, researchers have discovered that the amount of lead necessary to produce central nervous system effects is far lower than previously realized.7 Several other element imbalances are also strongly implicated in hyperactive behavior. A pilot study on metal levels in the hair of hyperactive children, for example, found raised levels of manganese and reduced levels of zinc in comparison with controls.8 Another finding is lowered zinc and vitamin B-6 in conjunction with high lead and copper.9 And because deficiencies of calcium, selenium, zinc, and iron are thought to increase uptake of heavy metal toxins such as lead, aluminum, cadmium, and mercury, key nutrient imbalances can increase the likelihood of toxic reactions that trigger hyperactivity.10

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Although drugs can sometimes provide a quick, temporary solution to hyperactivity and attention deficit-related problems, it's important to remember that pharmaceuticals simply treat symptoms of attention deficit disorders--not causes. When medication is stopped, symptoms may promptly return, setting the stage for possible lifelong dependence on prescription drugs. Please also note that many prescription medicines deplete the very amino acids necessary to bring balance to the brain neurotransmitters. The following neutotransmitter Test test, HPA Profile by Neuro Labs, can be used to detect possible causes and contributing factors linked to hyperactive behavior, problems with focus, depression and migraines in children and adults and can provide the basis for natural, drug-free alternative methods of treatment. Once tested, Dr Rispoli can custom taylor a program to bring balance back to the brain chemicals, calm down racing minds, bring focus and mental clarity back into focus, all with specific natural amino acids. The amino acids can be used in conjunction with medicine, making the medicine more effective, or in many cases in place of medicine.

The Elemental Analysis determines levels of toxic and nutritional elements in the body using a hair, blood, or urine sample. Each specimen type provides a unique window into element status. A hair sample will reflect chronic toxic exposure and long-term nutritional deficiencies, while blood and urine assessment will gauge the effects of more recent imbalances. Possible treatments for element imbalances include chelation therapy, nutrient supplements, vitamins, water purifying systems, dietary changes, and other natural approaches.

References:

1 Needleman HL. The current status of childhood low-level lead toxicity. Neurotoxicology
1993;14(2-3):161-6.

2 Needleman HL. The neurobehavioral consequences of low lead exposure in childhood. Neurobehav Toxicol
Teratol 1982;4:6, 729-32.

3 Bellinger D, Hu H, Titlebaum L, Needleman HL. Attentional correlates of denin and bone lead levels in adolescents. Arch Environ Health 1994;49(2):98-105.

4 Needleman HL, Gunnoe C, Leviton A, Reed R, Peresie H, Maher C, Barrett P. Deficits in psychologic and classroom performance of children with elevated dentine lead levels. New Eng J Med 1979:300(130):689-695).

5 Needleman HL, Schell A, Bellinger D, Leviton A, Allred EN. The long-term effects of exposure to low doses of lead in childhood. An 11-year follow-up report. N Eng J Med 1990;322(2):83-8.

6 American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Facts for Families: Lead Exposure, 1997.

7 Needleman HL. Childhood lead poisoning. Curr Opin Neurol 1994;7(2):187-90.

8 Barlow PJ. A pilot study on the metal levels in the hair of hyperactive children. Med Hypotheses 1983;11(3):309-18.

9 Pfieffer CC, Braverman ER. Zinc, the brain and behavior. Biol Psychiat 1982;17(4):513-32.

10 Needleman HL. The persistent threat of lead: medical and sociological issues. Curr Probl Pediatr 1988;18(12):697-744.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 25 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.