ADHD
Functional Medicine for ADHD in Portland
Is your Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) impacting your quality of life? ADHD means more than being easily distracted, and it’s not just a condition found in children. In fact, ADHD can be traced to many complex biological functions, which, when balanced, lead to amazing outcomes.
Dr. Tanya Hudson is a functional medicine doctor in Portland specializing in ADHD. Using all-natural remedies, she addresses the underlying factors involved in focus, forgetfulness, impulsivity, and more.
It’s time that we moved past the mindset that medication is the only solution. Instead, embrace the power of nutrition, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies. Let’s truly address the root causes of your ADHD and regulate your body from the inside out.
If you or a loved one are looking for natural solutions to ADHD management in Portland, you’re invited to become a new patient.
"If you don’t make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness.”
- Dr. Tanya Hudson
Why ADHD Medication Alone Rarely Works
Over the years, ADHD has been primarily managed with prescription medications such as stimulants and non-stimulants. While Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin, and other drugs can provide short-term relief from ADHD symptoms, they come with a set of challenges, including:
Side Effects
Common side effects of ADHD medications can include insomnia, appetite suppression, and mood swings, which can impact the overall well-being of individuals.
Dependency
Some medications used to treat ADHD can be habit-forming, potentially leading to dependency and addiction in some cases.
Tolerance
Over time, individuals may develop a tolerance to ADHD medications, requiring higher doses for the same level of symptom relief.
Long-term Concerns
The long-term effects of using ADHD medications, especially in children, are not fully understood, leading to concerns about potential health risks.
Masking Underlying Issues
Medications can mask underlying problems or co-occurring conditions that may need addressing, potentially delaying necessary interventions.
Perhaps you’ve been noticing some of these challenges yourself. If so, then it’s time to try my Portland functional medicine services for ADHD. Ideally, Dr. Hudson will get you to the point where you lower your reliance on medication and find lasting relief.
“Take moments of quiet time to be still and focus on your physical and mental health.”
ADHD's Impact on Everyday Life
ADHD is not just limited to moments of inattention or restlessness; it affects nearly every aspect of an individual's life. From school and work performance to personal relationships and self-esteem, the challenges posed by ADHD to people living in Portland can be significant. Functional medicine can help you live a vibrant life with ADHD.
Academic struggles are a common challenge for individuals with ADHD, spanning both children and adults. These difficulties often manifest as issues with concentration, organization, and meeting assignment deadlines, ultimately resulting in academic underachievement.
Adults with ADHD often encounter challenges at work. Maintaining focus at work, meeting deadlines, and effectively organizing tasks become significant hurdles that can potentially hinder career advancement.
Personal relationships can also be strained by ADHD-related symptoms. Impulsivity and difficulty in sustaining attention can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts, putting a strain on interpersonal connections.
ADHD doesn't just affect external aspects of life; it takes a toll on emotional well-being as well. Mood swings, low self-esteem, and pervasive feelings of frustration and inadequacy can be prevalent, impacting overall emotional health. Moreover, individuals with ADHD often struggle with self-regulation in their daily lives. Managing finances, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and completing routine tasks that require self-discipline can be particularly challenging and frustrating for them.
My passion is helping people in Portland regulate through functional medicine. Whether you come to me for ADHD or anxiety, I want to offer freedom from these complex conditions.
“Your body is built to move.”
Understanding the Biological Factors Influencing ADHD
ADHD is a complex condition with multiple underlying biological factors. Understanding these factors is crucial to developing effective treatment strategies. In fact, that’s the main goal of functional medicine and naturopathy – addressing the root cause of disease.
Some key biological factors associated with ADHD include:
Neurotransmitter Imbalance
ADHD has been linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which play crucial roles in attention, motivation, and impulse control.
Genetics
There is a strong genetic component to ADHD, with a higher likelihood of the disorder occurring in individuals with a family history of ADHD.
Brain Structure and Function
Brain imaging studies have shown structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD, particularly in areas related to attention and impulse control.
Environmental Factors
Prenatal exposure to toxins, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and low birth weight have been associated with an increased risk of developing ADHD.
Diet and Nutrition
Some studies suggest that dietary factors, such as artificial food additives and low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, may contribute to ADHD symptoms in some individuals.
“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Five Ways Functional Medicine Can Help ADHD
Now, it’s time to explore potential functional medicine strategies for ADHD. Using holistic and individualized approaches to health, functional medicine offers a promising alternative for managing ADHD.
Remember, when you work with Dr. Hudson, you receive a passionate health advocate. She puts you at the center of your wellness plan and makes sure you’re comfortable through the entire process. Have questions? Ask! When she says she will provide a personalized wellness plan, that doesn’t mean a dry list of instructions. It means expertise and encouragement tailored to your situation.
Here are five ways functional medicine can provide valuable support and relief:
Dietary Modifications
Functional medicine doctors in Portland can work with individuals to identify food sensitivities and intolerances that may exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They may recommend a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, including those with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to support brain health.
Nutritional Supplements
Functional medicine doctors may prescribe supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium, which have shown promise in improving attention and reducing hyperactivity in some individuals with ADHD.
Behavioral Therapy
Dr. Hudson incorporates behavioral therapies and lifestyle modifications into her treatment plans. These strategies can help individuals develop coping skills, improve time management, and enhance self-regulation.
Stress Reduction Techniques
Stress can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. Functional medicine emphasizes stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and biofeedback to help individuals manage stress and improve focus.
Herbal Medicine
Some herbal remedies, like ginkgo biloba and bacopa monnieri, have been explored for their potential to enhance cognitive function and attention. Functional medicine may incorporate herbal medicine as part of a holistic treatment plan.
“Every small step forward is momentum, taking you to the top of the mountain, where you feel strong, healthy, alive, and truly YOU.”
- Dr. Tanya Hudson
Begin Functional Medicine for ADHD in Portland Today
If you or a loved one in Portland is seeking a natural approach to managing ADHD, we invite you to explore the possibilities. At our clinic, we believe in a personalized, holistic approach to health that takes into account your unique needs and challenges. Dr. Hudson is committed to helping you or your child thrive by addressing the underlying factors contributing to ADHD symptoms.
Take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life by scheduling a consultation with us. There is hope for relief from the challenges of ADHD, and we are here to support you on your journey to wellness.
