Supporting Your Child’s ADHD Symptoms Without Medication

By Dr. Alyssa McPeak

ADHD has become more common in children, and while medications are often recommended, many parents are looking for natural ways to support their child’s focus, attention, and emotional regulation. At Roots Wholistic Health, we take a holistic approach by looking at the nervous system, gut health, nutrition, and lifestyle to help kids thrive — at home, at school, and beyond.

In this post, we’ll walk you through natural strategies to support your child’s ADHD symptoms, including chiropractic care, nutrition, functional medicine testing, herbal supplements, essential oils, and more.

1. Chiropractic Care for Nervous System Regulation 🌿

Chiropractic care doesn’t just help with back and neck pain — it supports the nervous system, which plays a major role in attention, emotional control, and focus. When the spine is misaligned, it can cause interference in how the brain communicates with the body.

At Roots Wholistic Health, our gentle pediatric chiropractic adjustments:

• Help regulate the nervous system

• Improve focus and concentration

• Reduce hyperactivity and meltdowns

• Support overall emotional balance

Many parents notice their children are calmer, sleep better, and focus more easily after starting regular adjustments.

2. Start the Day With Protein 🍳

Breakfast sets the tone for your child’s energy and focus throughout the day. High-protein breakfasts help stabilize blood sugar, prevent mid-morning crashes, and reduce impulsivity.

Quick & Easy Protein Options for Busy Mornings:

• Hard-boiled eggs (make ahead for the week)

• Greek-style plain yogurt with chia seeds

• Turkey or chicken breakfast sausages (we love Aldi’s clean ingredients options!)

• Protein smoothies with bone broth protein or collagen powder

• Almond flour pancakes topped with nut butter

• Cottage cheese with berries (if tolerated)

Skipping sugary cereals, muffins, pop-tarts and high-carb breakfasts can make a huge difference in regulating mood and attention.

3. Functional Medicine Testing 

Every child is unique, and ADHD symptoms can be influenced by underlying factors. Through functional medicine testing, we can uncover hidden imbalances that may be contributing to attention and behavioral challenges, such as:

• Food sensitivities causing inflammation

• Nutrient deficiencies (zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, B-vitamins, omega-3s)

• Blood sugar imbalances

• Gut microbiome dysfunction

• Heavy metals or environmental toxins

• Parasite infestations

By understanding your child’s unique biochemistry, we can create a personalized plan to support their brain and body.

4. Support Gut Health 

Did you know that more than 70% of your child’s neurotransmitters are made in the gut? Poor gut health can contribute to mood swings, hyperactivity, and poor focus.

Ways to support gut health naturally:

• Add a high-quality probiotic (we love Orthomolecular and Designs for Health)

• Include fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi or kefir

• Reduce processed foods, artificial dyes, and refined sugars

• Address food sensitivities with testing when needed

When the gut is healthy, the brain functions better — it’s that simple.

5. Herbal Supplements & Adaptogens 🌱

Certain herbs can gently support focus, calm, and emotional balance in children with ADHD. Some options we often recommend include:

• Chamomile → promotes relaxation

• L-theanine → supports calm focus

• Ashwagandha → balances stress hormones

• Bacopa monnieri → shown to support memory and learning

Always check with your provider before starting any supplements to ensure safety and proper dosing for your child.

6. Essential Oils for Calm & Focus 🌸

Essential oils can be a great tool to help regulate mood and improve concentration. Some of our favorites from Plant Therapy include:

• Lavender → promotes relaxation and better sleep

• Peppermint → boosts alertness and mental clarity

• Cedarwood → supports emotional balance

• Vetiver → often used for improving focus

Diffuse them in your home, apply diluted blends to the bottoms of feet, or use rollers before school for a calming effect.

7. Key Vitamins & Minerals for ADHD Support 💊

Nutrient deficiencies can play a big role in ADHD symptoms. Some of the most important include:

• Magnesium → supports relaxation and reduces hyperactivity

• Zinc → improves focus and emotional regulation

• Omega-3 fatty acids → essential for brain health

• Vitamin D → supports neurotransmitter function

• B-vitamins → help regulate mood and energy

We trust brands like Mary Ruth’s, Orthomolecular, and Designs for Health for high-quality, effective supplements.

*Remember that if your child's gut is not functioning well (leaky gut) these nutrients might not be digested or absorbed; check gut health first before loading up on supplements.

A Natural, Whole-Body Approach to ADHD

Supporting your child’s ADHD symptoms naturally isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about creating balance in the brain, gut, and nervous system. At Roots Wholistic Health, we help parents find answers through:

• Gentle pediatric chiropractic care

• Functional medicine testing

• Personalized nutrition support

• Safe, effective supplements and lifestyle strategies

You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to help you support your child in feeling calmer, more focused, and more confident.

Ready to Help Your Child Thrive?

📍 Visit us at Roots Wholistic Health

📞 Call today to schedule a pediatric consultation

🌿 Let’s work together to naturally support your child’s focus, attention, and overall well-being!