Conventional medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can have undesirable side-effects. Sharon Bardsley, founder of Cognitively, explains her natural remedies
What are the conventional medical treatments for ADHD and their drawbacks?
Conventional medical treatments for ADHD often involve stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (Concerta) and amphetamines (Elvanse), as well as non-stimulant options like atomoxetine (Strattera). While these treatments can effectively manage symptoms, they come with potential drawbacks, including side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and appetite suppression. For up to 30% of individuals, these side effects can be intolerable. My daughter experienced severe side effects, requiring sleeping tablets and anti-anxiety medications, and even experienced hallucinations
What’s the story behind Cognitively?
My daughter has ADHD, and for years we struggled to find the right medication, only to end up medicating the side effects as well. It was a difficult period for our family, with my daughter becoming very mentally unwell and a shadow of her former self. During lockdown, we decided to pause and reassess. I researched the latest natural and herbal remedies for ADHD and, finding no single product with all the desired ingredients, decided to create one myself. My mission is to help families like ours navigate the challenging journey with traditional ADHD medications.
What are the ingredients of Cognitively products and what are their benefits?
The children’s version of Cognitively contains 15 ingredients, blending Eastern and Western approaches to address ADHD and emotional dysregulation. This formula includes vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic herbal remedies. Crucially, these ingredients are provided in therapeutic doses to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Are there any experts involved in the development of Cognitively?
After conducting my research, I enlisted the expertise of a nutritionist specialising in supplement creation. Additionally, I consulted with an industry specialist who assisted with legal requirements, suppliers and connected me with top UK formulators.
What sort of people could benefit from Cognitively products?
Cognitively products can offer several benefits for individuals with ADHD, for children who cannot tolerate traditional medications, these products may serve as an alternative under a doctor’s guidance. They can also be useful while awaiting a diagnosis, which can sometimes take years. Additionally, Cognitively can be beneficial during medication breaks, such as during school holidays when a medication holiday is recommended. Beyond ADHD, these products can enhance cognitive functions for students, professionals, and older adults experiencing age-related cognitive decline. Students might use them for improved focus and memory during study periods, while professionals could benefit from enhanced mental clarity and productivity in high-stress environments.
What are the principles of Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine?
For thousands of years, India and China have utilized plants and herbs for healing, a practice validated by modern discoveries such as aspirin derived from willow tree bark. Chinese medicine identifies ADHD as a Qi and blood imbalance, treated with acupuncture and herbal remedies for harmony. Ayurvedic medicine sees ADHD as a imbalance, managed through dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and herbal therapies to rebalance the body. Both systems emphasize holistic health, linking mind and body to enhance mental clarity, focus, and overall well-being.
How can Cognitively products help children during exams and what other help should be offered?
Cognitively products can help children during exams by enhancing focus, memory, and cognitive function with natural, brain-supporting ingredients. They also provide emotional support by reducing stress and anxiety. For children with ADHD, who are easily distracted by every sound in the exam room, Cognitively helps to quiet the mind, allowing for better concentration and performance. Additionally, children with ADHD are entitled to extra time and even breaks to stretch their legs during exams.
How are Cognitively products used and are they suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Cognitively products for adults and children are taken daily as dietary supplements, with recommended dosages indicated on the packaging. The adult version comes in capsule form, while the children’s version is a chocolate-flavoured powder easily mixed with milk. The flavour is carefully designed to appeal to sensory-sensitive ADHD kids. These products are free from dairy, yeast, gluten, preservatives, and added sugar, and are also vegan-friendly.
Can I take Cognitively with other medication?
This question should be addressed by your GP, who has access to your complete medical history.
Where can I find out more about Cognitively?
For more information about Cognitively, please visit our website and online shop at www.cognitively.co.uk. Here, you’ll find comprehensive details about our product lineup, ingredients, and the scientific principles behind our formulations. Our website includes customer testimonials, FAQs, and blog articles focused on cognitive health. Stay updated by following our social media channels @cognitively_uk, where we share promotions, educational content, and updates on brain health and wellness. We’ve received excellent feedback from parents and adults who have benefited from using Cognitively.
