In the latest episode of my podcast "Brain Power with Dr. Eko", I had the pleasure of discussing the multifaceted causes of ADHD with Dr. Ruan, the CEO of the Texas Center for Lifestyle Medicine. This episode is packed with valuable insights that can help parents better understand their child's behavior and support their overall well-being. Here's a sneak peek of what we covered:
Sleep Disorders and ADHD
The "Five Whys" Approach
Oral Health and Cognitive Well-being
Impact of COVID-19
Diet, Hydration, and Behavior
Parenting with Grace
Sleep Disorders and ADHD
Could chronic mouth breathing or sleep apnea be masquerading as ADHD in your adolescent? Dr. Ruan introduces us to the concept of the skull-brain connection, highlighting how sleep disorders might be at the root of behaviors often misdiagnosed as ADHD or ADD. Many children exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity or inattention, which are commonly attributed to ADHD. However, these behaviors might be compensatory mechanisms for underlying sleep issues. For instance, chronic mouth breathing, sleep apnea, and poor sleep quality can prevent children from getting the restorative sleep they need, leading to daytime hyperactivity as their brain struggles to stay awake.
The "Five Whys" Approach
Dr. Ruan advocates for the "five whys" approach, a root cause analysis technique used in engineering, to help parents dig deeper into their child's symptoms. By asking "why" five times, parents can uncover the underlying issues affecting their child's brain function. For example, if a child exhibits inattention, the first question might be, "Why is my child inattentive?" The answer could be poor sleep quality. The next question would be, "Why is my child's sleep quality poor?" This line of questioning can reveal contributing factors such as late-night screen time, dietary habits, or even anatomical issues like a narrow airway.
Oral Health and Cognitive Well-being
Oral health is another critical aspect of cognitive well-being that Dr. Ruan explores in this episode. The trigeminal nerve, which sends sensory information from the teeth and jaw to the brain, plays a vital role in managing stress and emotional responses. Improper bite alignment can lead to symptoms like ADD, inattention, and hyperactivity in children, as well as cognitive impairments in adults. The trigeminal cardiac reflex (TCR) is a key mechanism in this process. When the teeth don't meet properly, the brain may struggle to calm down, leading to hyperactivity and inattention.
Impact of COVID-19
The episode also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on neurological and psychiatric symptoms. The inflammation caused by the virus can affect the sinuses and mouth, exacerbating existing issues. Dr. Ruan recommends seeking professionals knowledgeable in physiologic dental medicine and sleep education to address these complex problems. He points to resources like the American Association of Physiologic Dental Medicine (AAPMD) and the Sleep Education Consortium (SEC) for further guidance.
Diet, Hydration, and Behavior
Diet and hydration are equally crucial in influencing children's behavior and health. Dr. Ruan discusses how processed foods, sugars, and inadequate hydration can lead to increased mucus production and behavioral issues. Foods high in MSG, for instance, can disrupt sleep and trigger hyperactivity due to their neuro-excitatory effects. Parents should be mindful of their child's diet, focusing on reducing processed food intake and ensuring proper hydration. Natural sugars found in fruits, which contain beneficial polyphenols, are a better alternative to processed sugars and sugar substitutes, which can negatively impact brain function and behavior.
Parenting with Grace
Finally, Dr. Ruan emphasizes the importance of parenting with grace. He encourages parents to be kind to themselves and their children, recognizing that parenting is not about achieving perfection but about continuous learning and open communication. Understanding the root causes of a child's behavior and addressing them with empathy and knowledge can lead to significant improvements in their health and well-being.
In summary, this episode of "Brain Power with Dr. Eko" provides a holistic view of ADHD, highlighting the interconnectedness of sleep, oral health, and diet in managing symptoms. Dr. Ruan's insights encourage parents to look beyond the surface and address the underlying causes affecting their child's brain function. By adopting a comprehensive approach, parents can empower themselves with the knowledge to support their child's health and nurture their development effectively.
🎧 Don't miss out on these invaluable insights—listen to the full episode today!
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