Could iron deficiency be a cause of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (known as ADHD)? A French study team has found low iron blood levels in a shocking 84% of 53 children aged 7-11 with ADHD. This compared to 18% of children who had low iron levels among an age and sex matched control group with mild reading disabilities.
In the children with ADHD, those with low iron levels were also generally worse affected by lack of concentration and learning problems.

The team suggests that iron deficiency could lead to ADHD symptoms. If children diagnosed with ADHD are tested for iron levels, and found to have low levels, they suggest iron supplementation might be the first line of treatment.

Click here for more research reports on the causes of ADHD

First published in April 2005

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