Stop ADHD, ADD, ODD Hyperactivity: A Drugless Family Guide to Optimal Health

Book Review by James Van Wagoner, DC

Title:

Stop ADHD, ADD, ODD Hyperactivity: A Drugless Family Guide to Optimal Health

Author:

Robert DeMaria, DC, DACBO

Publisher:

Drugless Healthcare Solutions, 2003

Type:

Softcover, 196 pages

Price:

$19.95

Part #:

T-248

It is apparent that Dr. DeMaria has many years of experience treating these childhood conditions in his practice. His style is easy to read. The key facts are summarized in the margins to help the reader focus on developing a conceptual understanding of all of the key issues. The management for each condition includes spinal corrective care, diet, exercise, emotional support, and general behavior suggestions. Hooray! A true wellness approach!

Reductionism versus holism is introduced early on. This book helps the reader understand the philosophical difference between using medicine to treat, versus taking a holistic approach toward finding a solution to these childhood epidemics. The correlation made between food chemistry and brain chemistry is excellent. The value of essential fats, synthetic versus organic vitamins, and unmasking the truth about milk is covered in a concise format that lets the reader compare the facts using charts that are easy to understand and absorb.

Several chapters support these concepts, and the author provides common-sense information, including valuable strategies on how to implement his solutions into everyday life. Dr. DeMaria introduces the "hyper-free" diet and many recipes to support this approach. He is also realistic about behavioral changes and how difficult it is to modify one's lifestyle. His suggestions are realistic and allow for individualism.

He makes an excellent point that early management will save hundreds of dollars on the remedies that poor food chemistry contributes to later in life. This book is a must-read for any family member compelled to find "noninvasive" methods to deal with these dysfunctions. Dr. DeMaria makes a case that is very convincing: If these changes are made, several benefits beyond behavior will be the reward - the classroom, the workplace and the family will all benefit.

Dr. DeMaria provides enough personal stories that you know he understands. However, he is professional enough to feed us the facts. This book will make anyone think twice about these behavioral challenges affecting our youth: one - that chemistry is involved in behavior and brain function; and two - that there are many side-effects with current traditional treatment.

The content of this book is intended to create a dialogue about these dysfunctions from which we can all benefit. Dr. DeMaria realistically admits that each case does not always have a simple answer; it is a process that requires information, feedback and open communication between the patient, family and practitioner. He has developed a logical course of care based on current data and holistic management. This book should be required reading for anyone interested in a holistic approach to stopping ADHD, ADD, ODD and/or hyperactivity.

Dr. Van Wagoner's rating:

10 out of 10