What To Eat & Avoid When You Have Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a behavioral disorder that develops in young children. It is represented by uncooperative, hostile, and disobedient behavior of the child towards any authority figure present in the family, school, or work. The children are usually 6-8 years of age. It can also affect adults whose childhood it often remains undiagnosed. It is more commonly seen in boys than in girls. It affects the performance and relationship of the affected child with others.

Magnesium- Research studies show that magnesium threonate, formulated salt of magnesium, can restore the function of aging neurons. It helps the brain to work better. Magnesium is known as an essential element for cellular functioning. It is also critical for brain health. ⁽¹⁾

Good Fats- a low-fat diet may deprive children of crucial nutrients for brain health. Whole, raw milk, and cultured dairy products, coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, fish oil, and butter are good fats. ⁽¹⁾

Enhancing Detox Pathways And Liver- Some children have problem-related to the elimination of toxins from the body. It may happen due to improper functioning of the body’s detox mechanisms. Its causes can be a genetic mutation or toxic overload. Detox baths, avoidance of pesticides and lawn chemicals in the air, WIFI, and other dirty electricity can help in this. Fresh fruits, desiccated liver, organic vegetables, liver supplements, cucumber, green apples, lemon, and celery may help in the detoxification of the liver. ⁽¹⁾

Artificial Color, Sweetener, And Preservative Containing Food- Research studies reveal that artificial colors can lead to behavioral problems in children. It is observed in children with oppositional defiant disorder. Artificial sweeteners mentioned under the names acesulfame, saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, neotame, and sugar alcohols like xylitol and sorbitol and Preservatives including BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), sulfates/sulfites, potassium bromated, nitrates/nitrites, BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), and sodium benzoate are categorized as “excitotoxins,” They stimulate or excite neurotransmitters and can damage brain cells. ⁽¹⁾

Gluten – Gluten can act as another excitotoxin for some people, especially children, who develop behavioral problems. It creates a morphine-like reaction in some people, which means the child may feel high after consumption of gluten. A substance called “gluteomorphin” is produced by gluten that acts as an opiate to the brain, resulting in brain fog, and addiction. Most children with behavioral problems develop a craving for starchy bread and carbohydrates. In some children, gluten is not digested or tolerated, leading to the accumulation of undigested protein in the brain interfering with the absorption of other vital nutrients in the body. ⁽¹⁾

Certain Grains- Unfortunately, there are some grains that can act as an allergenic agent for children with oppositional defiant disorder, aside from those containing gluten. There is a particular food that is plain allergenic (like corn), and some food elevates starch load, which would hamper gut health. For instance, white rice does not lead to an allergic reaction usually in people, but in some children, who have poor gut health, they cannot digest white rice. If such food items are identified then, such items should be avoided in oppositional defiant disorder. ⁽¹⁾

Sugar- Sugar may elevate the symptoms of the oppositional defiant disorder as artificial sugar and sweeteners elevate the craving and increase the population of harmful bacteria in the gut, replacing the good one. It can be avoided if they are replaced by natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, etc. ⁽¹⁾

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is often triggered by the food we eat. These foods include high sugar-containing food, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, gluten-rich food, and others discussed above. Magnesium-rich food, good fats, and detox foods help a lot to control the symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder.

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Also Read:

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Complications
• Parenting Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Teaching Strategies for ODD
• At What Age Can Oppositional Defiant Disorder Be Diagnosed & Who Is Affected By It?
• How Do You Deal With Someone With Oppositional Defiant Disorder & Is It Caused By Bad Parenting?
• How Do You Discipline A Child With Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
• Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder A Mental Illness & Is It A Part Of The Autism Spectrum?
• Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder Hereditary & What Happens To Adults With It?