There is no specific diet to manage the symptoms of ADHD in children and adults. However, a nutritious diet may provide some benefits and support overall health.
Methods to manage ADHD symptoms include medication, cognitive or behavioral therapy, and organizational strategies.
There is conflicting evidence on the benefits of diet and nutrient supplementation for ADHD, but a nutritious diet may improve overall health and help reduce ADHD symptoms in some cases.
This article looks at the potential effects of diet on ADHD, which dietary changes may help people with ADHD, and which changes they may wish to avoid.
According to a
For example, some research within the review found dietary sugars had a negative effect on ADHD symptoms, while other research found no significant link. More research is necessary to establish the effects of diet on these symptoms.
A 2022 article states that research has not convincingly shown a causal link between ADHD and diet.
Vitamins and minerals
According to a
However, it notes that supplementing these nutrients had marginal benefits and usually had mixed or inconclusive results.
If children with ADHD have deficiencies in these nutrients, supplements may affect their ADHD symptoms. However, further research is necessary to determine whether there is a link between these nutrients and ADHD symptoms.
People may choose to undergo testing with a healthcare professional to see if they or a child require additional vitamins and minerals through diet or supplementation.
Omega-3 fatty acids
PUFAs are vital for optimal neurotransmitter function. Research in a
If children are not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids through their diet, parents or caregivers may want to talk with a healthcare professional about taking a supplement. However, there is little evidence to suggest omega-3 PUFA supplementation alone will affect ADHD symptoms.
Within the above
It also suggests that diets high in processed, sweet, snack, and junk foods may have links to a higher incidence of ADHD. Additionally, diets such as vegetarian and Mediterranean diets may decrease the risk.
The review also highlighted the prevalence of elimination diets in the study of nutrition and ADHD. An elimination diet gradually removes individual foods to try and isolate ingredients or nutrients that may affect people.
However, these diets have shown scarce evidence in the study of diet and ADHD. Additionally, they can lead to nutritional deficiencies and growth issues in children with ADHD.
A person can consult a doctor if they believe that a certain ingredient or nutrient may be affecting their ADHD symptoms or those of a child.
The Child Mind Institute highlights that there is limited research on whether certain foods can reduce ADHD symptoms. However, eating certain foods can help promote overall health and may support brain health.
This includes a diet focused on:
- vegetables
- fruits
- sources of protein, such as eggs, milk, lean meat, nuts, soy, and low fat yogurt
- healthy fats, such as fatty fish, avocado, chia seeds, flaxseed, and tofu
- complex carbohydrates, such as beans, lentils, peas, brown rice, oatmeal, and whole grains
- sources of vitamin B, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and chickpeas
- sources of zinc, iron, and magnesium, such as in poultry, seafood, meat, nuts, and soy
- omega-3 fatty acids, such as in salmon, walnuts, and edamame
Avoiding or limiting added sugars may help manage ADHD symptoms, as sugar may temporarily increase overactivity. Limiting sugar intake can also help improve overall health, support weight management, improve sleep, and reduce the risk of diabetes.
Foods to limit or avoid may include:
- sugar and syrups
- sweets and candy
- sweetened breakfast cereals
- cookies, cakes, and pastries
- processed foods, such as snack foods and potato chips
Many ADHD diets recommend avoiding additives, food colorings, and preservatives. However, currently, there is no strong evidence to suggest eliminating food colorings has a significant effect on ADHD.
Research suggests a link between increased consumption of sweetened drinks and a
People may want to limit or avoid drinks high in sugar, such as:
- soda
- fruit juices
- energy drinks
Drinking plenty of water can help children stay well hydrated and may support brain function, according to the Food for the Brain Foundation. Adding lemon, lime, or berries may help add flavor.
Additionally, caffeine may increase overactivity in some children, so it may be best to limit or avoid products containing it.
Generally, dietary recommendations are similar for adults with ADHD as children with the condition.
Adults may want to limit caffeine consumption if it causes side effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, or irritability. The risk of caffeine side effects may increase with the use of stimulant medications.
There are no set guidelines for an ADHD diet, but eating a diet that helps support overall health may also have benefits for the condition.
There may be risks or interactions with supplements or herbal remedies and ADHD medications. People can work alongside a healthcare professional to discuss any dietary changes and avoid these risks.