In our Article Library, you’ll find several discussions on various nutritional interventions for ADHD. Although vitamin C is known more for its immune-boosting and antioxidant properties, some studies suggest that it may play an important role in managing hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Before you get excited and start buying vitamin C supplements, take note that vitamin C works more as a secondary treatment that boosts the efficacy of supplements and dietary methods; in other words, it should not be used as a single, stand-alone treatment. Although some of its speculative benefits still need to be confirmed by further studies, it seems like maintaining or increasing vitamin C levels can reduce ADHD symptoms in five ways:
Protects omega-3 fatty acids from oxidation
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing DHA and EPA are known to improve brain function among individuals with ADHD. However, one of the main problems of supplementing with fatty acids is that they are prone to oxidation after the slightest exposure to sun, air, or light. Oxidation basically means that the fatty acids break down, go rancid, and no longer contain their nutritional benefits. A natural antioxidant can prevent this problem, but vitamin C is actually not the best choice where fatty acids are concerned. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it has limited effects on a less water soluble substance like omega-3 fats. However, it does boost the levels of other important antioxidants like glutathione and vitamin E, which are better equipped to protect omega-3 fats from oxidation. It’s also important to note that vitamins C and E work very well as an anti-oxidant team.
Neuroprotective properties
Did you know that the brain’s nerve endings have the second highest concentration of vitamin C in the body? (The first is the adrenal glands.) New research shows that vitamin C performs a strong protective role in the brain, especially when used with vitamin D. It protects against a specific type of oxidative damage called ischemia, which causes reduced blood supply to the brain. This is important to children with ADHD because ischemia is actually one of the lesser known causes of ADHD, especially during a child’s early years. Ischemia can interfere with the dopamine receptors in the brain, causing symptoms like poor attention span and slow reaction time.
Neutralizes the effects of lead
Current research shows that ADHD-like behaviors and symptoms may be connected to increased lead levels. Vitamin C can reduce lead’s negative effects on memory and learning, especially when used together with zinc, methionine, taurine, and glycene.
Improves absorption of minerals
Deficiencies in zinc, iron, and magnesium are just some of the nutrition-related triggers of ADHD. Researchers hypothesize that vitamin C’s ability to fight off the effects of lead has to do with the way it increases iron absorption, especially if iron is deficient. Take note that vitamin C can possibly work as a pro-oxidant if found at low levels in the body; in higher levels, it has an anti-oxidant effect.
Regulate blood sugar levels
Some research suggests that children with ADHD have low glucose metabolism in certain regions, especially those that control attention and movement. This effect seems to be more pronounced among girls and women. Although vitamin C’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels is more theoretical at this point, some diabetics already use vitamin C to help treat their condition.