
Understanding Why Your Child Can’t Sit Still: Insights into ADHD and More
If you’re a parent to a little boy who seems to have boundless energy, constantly
moving, and struggling to stay seated, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might
wonder if he’s being disrespectful or misbehaving. However, this restlessness
could stem from deeper causes, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD) or other underlying factors.
ADHD: A Common Cause of Hyperactivity and one of the most common
neurodevelopmental conditions affecting children.
It is characterized by:
- Inattentiveness: Difficulty focusing, frequent daydreaming, and trouble completing tasks.
- Hyperactivity: Constant movement, fidgeting, and an inability to stay seated.
- Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, and struggling to wait their turn.
Boys are more frequently diagnosed with ADHD than girls, often because their
hyperactive and impulsive behaviors are more noticeable. Unfortunately, these
behaviors are sometimes mistaken for deliberate misbehavior rather than
symptoms of a neurological imbalance.
While ADHD is a significant factor, it’s not the only explanation for why a child
may struggle to stay still. Other contributors include:
- Sensory Processing Issues: Difficulty managing sensory input, such as noise or textures, can make a child appear restless.
- Anxiety: An anxious child may fidget or appear unable to relax due to underlying stress.
- Diet and Sleep Patterns: Poor nutrition, food sensitivities, or insufficient sleep can exacerbate hyperactivity.
- Environmental Toxins: Exposure to substances like lead or artificial additives can influence a child’s behavior.
By understanding these potential causes, parents can take a more
compassionate and informed approach to their child’s challenges.
ADHD Types and Causes: Insights from Dr. Mohamed Afify
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In a recent video, Dr. Mohamed Afify breaks down the types of ADHD and discusses the potential underlying causes of this condition. Here’s a summary of
his insights:
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive (Hyperactivity): This type is characterized by excessive movement, fidgeting, and an inability to sit still. Hyperactivity is the dominant trait.
- Predominantly Inattentive: This type is less about physical activity and more about difficulty focusing. Children with this type may appear excessively “lazy” and struggle academically and struggle with learning disabilities.
- Combined Type: This is a mix of hyperactivity and inattention, where children exhibit traits from both categories.
Dr. Afify highlights several factors that can contribute to ADHD symptoms:
- Gut Health: Digestive issues and imbalances in gut bacteria may play a role in neurological health.
- Food Sensitivities: Allergies or sensitivities to certain foods can trigger behavioral changes.
- Mineral Imbalances: Deficiencies or excesses in key minerals like zinc and copper can affect brain function.
By addressing these root causes through dietary adjustments, supplements, and
other interventions, many children experience significant improvements in their
symptoms. Dr. Afify emphasizes that with the right support, children with ADHD
can achieve substantial progress and they can live their day-day life almost
normally.
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