P3.L237: Holistic Interventions: Exploring the Efficacy of Yoga and Natural Supplements in Pediatric ADHD Management

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains the most common pediatric neurodevelopmental disorder with an incidence of 9-11% among children aged 4-17 years old in the United States. Alternative therapies provide a holistic approach to managing ADHD in children by emphasizing the importance of behavioral interventions in exchange for pharmacological treatments. Implementing mindful physical activity and diet therapy has shown to attain positive improvements in behavioral patterns and cognitive function in children with ADHD. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effects of holistic interventions, including yoga, minerals and herbal supplements in children diagnosed with ADHD.

Methods: Studies were identified using PubMed, PsychINFO and Google Scholar databases. Randomized controlled trials with exposure to yoga and mineral or herbal therapies in children aged 3-18 years old were considered. Studies with self-reported data and no follow-up period were excluded. The PEDro scale assessed study quality.

Results: Out of 1,658 studies screened, 6 were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 729 participants with a mean age of 8.53 years. Utilizing a random-effects model, significant positive effects of yoga were observed on attention, hyperactivity, social problems and overall ADHD symptoms (SMD = 0.91, 0.90, 0.86, 0.56 respectively, p < 0.05). Zinc sulfate and homeopathy demonstrated positive effects on hyperactivity/impulsivity, socialization and overall symptoms compared to placebo supplements. However, zinc did not significantly affect attention deficit. Gingko biloba was found to be less effective than methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms (SMD: 1.18). Overall, yoga emerged as more beneficial than herbal and mineral supplements.

Conclusion: Recent studies suggest a correlation between yoga, dietary supplements and improved ADHD symptoms in children aged 3-18 years old. Incorporating these interventions into treatment plans could provide further symptomatic relief and enhance quality of life. Further research is needed to determine the specific contributions of these interventions, either alone or in combination with stimulants.