Amino Acids and ADHD

Dear Dr. Meletis, I have read about ADHD and amino acids, that they can help with concentration and focusing. Have you any information on this? If so which amino acids? I am 57 and have been a vegetarian for 30 years. So I have not been getting much in the way of amino acids and neither have my children. My oldest has ADD. Mr. W.

Dear Mr. W., The amino acids most commonly used with ADD/ADHD include L-Tyrosine and 5-HTP. But also important is DHA (an essential fatty acid from fish oil) and Zinc, along with a good B vitamin (such as Extension B-Plex). As you are already aware, Vitamin B12 is a key nutrient and as a vegetarian you should be watchful for deficiency. Sincerely, Chris D. Meletis, ND