Dr. Söderlund
wanted to find out if white noise could
be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms in children.
Here's the reference to the two studies:
Listen to the noise: noise is beneficial for cognitive performance in ADHD.
J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2007 Aug;48(8):840-7.
Söderlund G, Sikström S, Smart A.
The effects of background white noise on memory performance in inattentive school children.
Behav Brain Funct. 2010 Sep 29;6:55
Söderlund G, Sikström S,Loftesnes JM, Sonuga-Barke EJ.
In this research study, Dr. Söderlund, who looked at 51 students, found
that a loud white noise can be helpful in some children with ADHD. It
made a significant difference in their ability to recall facts.
However, in children not suffering from ADHD, a silent study environment seems to be better
for concentration and learning.
What is white
noise?
White noise is
random sounds that you hear when your radio is not tuned to a radio
station. It can be distracting to some people who are not used to it
and who prefer a quiet environment.
It can also be any soft and steady sound including a humming fan, air
filter or background music without any voices. For ground music, it
should be neutral in that it is not too stimulating or distracting to
listen to.
What is the
theory on why white noise for ADHD might be helpful?
One theory
that soft background white noise can be helpful in some
children suffering ADHD is that the sound might stimulate
neurotransmitter production, especially dopamine.
It appears that dopamine levels in the brain modulate how much noise is needed for proper amount of focus and concentration.
Dopmaine
levels may be lower in children with ADHD or hyperactivity. Thus,
exposing children to white noise may increase focus and attention.
Another possible theory is that white noise can boost brain
activity. After all, children with ADHD are often in a highly excited
state and they cannot even keep the hands and body still for any length of
time.
The white noise might be a type of "activity" that the brain can
process.
More studies will need to be done to
determine, for example, the optimal volume level and even the type of
white noise that works best.
But this is a somewhat simple experiment that most parents can try out
at home with nothing more than a radio, air filter or fan!
Test it out at
home. It's easy and doesn't cost anything. When your child is studying,
a soft white noise can be easily added to the room.
You will have to
find a volume level and the type of white noise that is suitable through experimentation.
If white noise helps, you can also combine it with all natural remedies
like
Focus Formula for added benefits.
Focus Formula
contains several of the best herbs. This combination herbal remedy will help to
improve concentration and attention for both children and
adults. It
will encourage normal energy levels and promote blood flow to the brain.
It
is professionally formulated using the Full Spectrum Approach
(FSA) to ensure maximum benefit from the herbs. The FSA manufacturing
method ensures the highest quality, safety and effectiveness.
The company backs up
Focus Formula
with a 1 year money-back guarantee. And it comes highly recommended
by those
who are currently using it to improve attention span and concentration
in their children.