Understanding ADHD in Children - A naturopathic perspective on root causes, nutrition and nervous system healing.
“They’re not being difficult. Their body is having a difficult time.”
As a naturopath who walks alongside families every day, I see the heartbreak behind the “behaviour” — the meltdowns, the restlessness, the sensitivity, the emotional intensity.
And too often, I see the guilt in the eyes of the parents:
“We’ve tried everything.”
“Is it something we’re doing wrong?”
“Why can’t they just… listen?”
But here’s the truth:
ADHD isn’t a behavioural problem. It’s a nervous system pattern.
And when we start from compassion instead of control, everything begins to shift.
What ADHD Really Is
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. But from a naturopathic perspective, we go deeper — asking:
“What is the child’s body trying to tell us?”
Many children diagnosed with ADHD are not “wired wrong.”
They’re wired sensitive — and their sensitive systems are often overwhelmed by things like:
Unstable blood sugar
Hidden food intolerances
Nutrient deficiencies
Gut inflammation
Chronic stress or trauma
In other words: their behaviour isn’t defiance. It’s dysregulation.
The Root Causes We Look For
As naturopaths, we don’t suppress symptoms — we ask why they’re showing up.
Here are some of the most common contributors we explore:
1. Nutrient Deficiencies
ADHD brains often need more fuel. Critical nutrients for focus and mood include:
Iron - needed for dopamine and energy
Zinc - needed for sensory and mood regulation
Magnesium - needed for calming and sleep
Omega-3’s - needed for brain flexibility
B vitamins - needed for neurotransmitters
Even mild deficiencies can show up as inattention, anxiety, restlessness, or infrequent emotional outbursts.
2. Gut-Brain Imbalance
Did you know that the gut makes 90% of the body’s serotonin?
If your child struggles with:
Eczema or allergies
Chronic constipation or bloating
Food sensitivities
Mood swings or anxiety
… we often see a disrupted gut-brain axis. Supporting digestion, reducing inflammation, and restoring balance through food and herbs can dramatically improve focus, mood, and sleep.
3. Blood Sugar Rollercoasters
Cereal and juice for breakfast → meltdown by 10am?
This isn’t a discipline issue — it’s biochemistry.
Stable blood sugar = stable mood and brain.
We aim for protein + fat + fibre at every meal to anchor the nervous system.
Herbal Support for ADHD
Herbs can nourish the ADHD nervous system without sedating or overstimulating.
Bacopa - enhances memory and reduces anxiety
Lemon Balm - calms excitability
Rhodiola - increases motivation and resilience
L-theanine - smooths focus and supports calm
Chamomile - anti-inflammatory and gentle nervine
Formulas are tailored to the child’s constitution — are they fiery or sluggish? Anxious or shut down? We always treat the child, not just the label.
Parenting the ADHD Nervous System
ADHD doesn’t just affect the child — it affects the whole family.
And no strategy works without relationship and regulation.
Co-Regulation Comes Before Correction
When a child is dysregulated, they can’t access logic. They need your nervous system to show them how to come back to centre.
Instead of: “Calm down!”
Try: “You’re having a big feeling. I’ve got you. Let’s breathe together.”
Boundaries That Teach, Not Shame
Clear boundaries help ADHD kids feel safe — but they must be delivered with kindness.
“It’s not okay to hit. Let’s stomp or shake instead.”
“You don’t have to like the rule — but it still stands. I love you.”
Repair After Rupture
We all lose our cool. Repair is where the healing lives.
“I got overwhelmed earlier and yelled. That wasn’t okay. You’re not bad. I’m sorry, and I love you.”
This teaches emotional safety more powerfully than any reward chart ever could.
Where to Start: A Gentle ADHD Support Checklist
Protein-rich breakfast daily
Add iron-rich and zinc-rich foods
Reduce artificial colours/flavours
Include magnesium before bed
Offer herbs like lemon balm or bacopa with guidance
Practice co-regulation before discipline
Swap “what’s wrong?” for “what does the body need?”
Your child isn’t broken.
Their behaviour isn’t a moral failing.
Their big feelings are not a parenting emergency.
They are asking, in the only language they know:
“Help me feel safe in my body.”
“Help me make sense of my world.”
“Help me regulate what I can’t yet hold on my own.”
As a naturopath, I believe deeply:
With the right nutrients, nervous system tools, and relational support — these kids don’t just cope.
They thrive.
Ready to Go Deeper?
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused by conflicting advice, or just need someone who truly gets it — I’m here to walk with you.
Based in Timaru | Online consultations NZ-wide
Holistic ADHD & behavioural health for kids
Functional nutrition | Herbal medicine | Nervous system healing
Book a 1:1 consultation today
Together, we’ll create a custom plan that supports your child’s brain, body, and heart — without shame, overwhelm, or cookie-cutter protocols.
Click BOOK NOW
Or DM me @thezenherbalist to ask if this is the right step for you.
Because your child doesn’t need fixing.
They need someone who sees beneath the surface — and helps them come home to themselves.
