Living with ADHD or other neurodivergent traits can make it tricky to focus, manage energy, and keep things on track. While many people rely on medication and therapy to help their mental health, what you eat can also make a difference. There’s growing research suggesting that certain foods and nutrients might actually help ease some of the challenges of ADHD. In this blog, we’re looking into how healthy eating habits can support brain function and mood, and what science has to say about food choices to help manage ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) symptoms.
How diet affects the brain
The food we eat doesn’t just fuel our bodies—it also has a big impact on how our brains work. For individuals with ADHD, certain nutrients can help improve focus, mood, and behaviour. Understanding the role food plays in brain function can be a useful tool for managing symptoms.
Brain-boosting nutrients
Some nutrients are especially helpful when it comes to brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, are known to support cognitive function and are linked to improved attention and behaviour in people with ADHD. Foods like fatty fish (salmon, sardines) and flaxseeds are great sources of omega-3s.
Other important nutrients include zinc, magnesium, and iron. These minerals are involved in brain signalling and can affect mood and concentration. A lack of these nutrients has been associated with increased hyperactivity and impulsivity in some people with ADHD. Incorporating leafy greens, nuts, and lean meats can help ensure you’re getting enough of these key minerals.
The importance of hydration in a healthy diet
Hydration is a crucial part of any healthy eating regime, yet it’s often overlooked. Staying properly hydrated helps maintain brain function, which is especially important for those with ADHD or ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) because it supports concentration and mood regulation. Water also plays an important role in digestion, helping your body absorb the nutrients from the foods you eat. Dehydration, on the other hand, can lead to fatigue, difficulty focusing, and irritability—symptoms that can further complicate the challenges of ADHD. By drinking enough water throughout the day, you can keep your energy levels stable and your mind sharp, making hydration an essential part of managing ADHD through diet.
The downside of sugar and processed foods
Processed foods and sugary snacks might be convenient, but they can make ADHD symptoms worse. High sugar intake can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, leading to bursts of hyperactivity followed by low energy and irritability. This up-and-down pattern can be particularly hard for people with ADHD.
Highly processed foods, which are often low in nutritional value, can also contribute to a lack of focus and difficulty regulating emotions. Swapping processed foods for whole, nutrient-dense options can lead to more stable energy and improved mood throughout the day.
Can bad eating trigger ADHD symptoms?
While diet alone doesn’t cause ADHD, poor eating habits can certainly make symptoms worse. Foods high in sugar, artificial additives, and unhealthy fats may contribute to behaviours like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty concentrating, which are common in ADHD. Processed and sugary foods can cause rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to sudden energy spikes followed by crashes. This can make it harder for someone with ADHD to manage their mood and focus throughout the day.
There’s also growing evidence that certain artificial food colourings and preservatives may increase hyperactivity in some children with ADHD. These additives, often found in processed snacks, fizzy drinks, and fast foods, can exacerbate symptoms, making it harder for individuals to concentrate or stay calm.
On the flip side, a diet lacking in key nutrients—such as omega 3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, and magnesium—can affect brain function and emotional regulation. These nutrients are important for supporting focus, attention, and mood stability, so if they’re missing from the diet, ADHD symptoms can be harder to manage.
In short, while unhealthy eating doesn’t trigger ADHD, it can worsen the symptoms and make day-to-day management more challenging. By focusing on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, neurodivergent individuals can better support their brain function and keep symptoms in check.
Foods to include and avoid for ADHD
When it comes to managing ADHD through diet, making smart food choices can have a noticeable impact on focus, energy, and mood. The mediterranean diet is often recommended, so you can find recipes from that part of the world to help you get started. Here’s a guide to what to put on your plate and what to steer clear of.
Foods to include
-Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, colourful produce provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support brain health. Berries, leafy greens, and oranges are particularly good for boosting cognitive function.
-Whole grains: Swap out refined carbs for whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat. These provide a steady release of energy, helping to prevent the crashes that can follow sugary or processed snacks.
-Lean proteins: Protein is key for stabilising blood sugar levels and supporting neurotransmitter production in the brain. Include sources like chicken, turkey, beans, and eggs in meals to keep energy and focus steady.
-Healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are known to support attention and cognitive function. Including these in the diet may help with focus and behaviour regulation.
Foods to avoid
Sugary snacks and drinks: Foods high in sugar can cause quick energy spikes followed by crashes, which may worsen hyperactivity and impulsivity. Avoid sweets, fizzy drinks, and sugary cereals, especially when trying to stay focused.
-Highly processed foods: Processed foods are often low in nutrients and high in additives like preservatives and artificial flavours. These can contribute to mood swings and make it harder to concentrate.
-Artificial additives: Some studies suggest that certain food colourings and preservatives may increase hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Limiting these from the diet could help reduce symptoms.
How to always have healthy foods available
Sticking to a healthy diet can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially when busy schedules and convenience tempt you towards quick, less nutritious options. The key to avoiding the unhealthy eating trap is preparation. By making healthy foods easy to access, you’re more likely to make better choices throughout the day. Here are some simple strategies to help keep you on track.
Plan your meals and snacks
Taking a few minutes to plan out your meals for the week can make a huge difference. By knowing what you’ll eat each day, you’re less likely to reach for unhealthy, last-minute options. Write down a weekly menu, including healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or hummus with veggie sticks. Keep it simple—there’s no need for complicated recipes—just focus on wholesome ingredients.
Keep healthy snacks on hand
Stock your kitchen, car, or bag with healthy, easy-to-grab snacks so you’re never caught off guard when hunger strikes. Keep fresh fruit, cookies made with healthy ingredients, unsalted nuts, yoghurt, or whole grain crackers readily available. This way, when cravings hit, you’ll have a nutritious option within reach. And don’t forget that bottle of water!
Prep in advance
Meal prepping can save time and ensure you have healthy meals ready to go, even on your busiest days. Spend an hour or two each week preparing items like grilled chicken, chopped vegetables, or cooked quinoa. You can then mix and match these ingredients for quick, balanced meals. Prepping snacks in advance, like cutting up fruit or portioning out nuts, makes it even easier to avoid unhealthy eating when you’re in a rush.
Shop smart
A well-stocked pantry and fridge make healthy eating easier. Make a grocery list based on your meal plan and stick to it when shopping. Load up on whole foods, such as fresh produce, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while avoiding processed, sugary items.
The role of supplements in a healthy ADHD diet
While a well-balanced diet is the best way to get essential nutrients, supplements can sometimes help fill the gaps, especially when managing ADHD symptoms. Certain vitamins, minerals, and even probiotics have been suggested to benefit individuals with ADHD by supporting brain function, mood regulation, and overall health. Here’s a closer look at some of the key supplements that may play a role in managing symptoms.
Magnesium and zinc
Magnesium plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that send messages in the brain. Low levels of magnesium have been associated with increased hyperactivity and impulsivity, so ensuring an adequate intake through food or supplements could help stabilise mood and improve focus.
Zinc is another important mineral that’s involved in regulating dopamine, a neurotransmitter that affects attention and behaviour. Some studies suggest that children with ADHD tend to have lower levels of zinc, and supplementing with zinc has been shown to improve symptoms in some cases. Foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens are good natural sources of these minerals, but supplements can help if these aren’t regularly part of the diet.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega-3s, often found in fish oil supplements, are well-known for their brain-boosting properties. Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can help improve attention, reduce hyperactivity, and enhance overall cognitive function in people with ADHD. While it’s best to get omega-3s from foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, supplements are a good option for those who don’t consume these foods regularly.
Probiotics and gut health
There’s growing evidence that gut health may influence brain function, and probiotics—supplements that promote healthy gut bacteria—have been suggested to support those with ADHD. While the research is still developing, some studies have found a link between gut health and improvements in mood and behaviour. Adding a probiotic supplement or incorporating more fermented foods like yoghurt into your diet may be beneficial for overall well-being.
Supplements as part of a balanced approach
Supplements aren’t a magic fix, but they can be a helpful addition to a healthy diet, particularly for those who struggle to get enough of these nutrients from food alone. If you’re considering supplements, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you’re choosing the right ones for your needs. When combined with balanced eating and other healthy lifestyle habits, supplements can be another tool in supporting ADHD management.
Final thoughts: How Healthy Eating Can Help Alleviate ADHD Symptoms
Managing ADHD through diet can feel like a big task, especially when unhealthy options are so easily available. But remember, you don’t need to make drastic changes overnight. By focusing on small, gradual steps—like including more whole foods, cutting down on sugar, and considering helpful supplements—you can start to support your brain and body in a way that may improve symptoms.
Every positive change, no matter how small, can make a difference. A balanced diet won’t replace ADHD medication or other treatments, but it can be a powerful part of an overall management strategy for ADHD. For some, improving nutrition may even replace the need for harmful medication, providing more natural support for focus, mood, and energy. Some have also found that a better diet helps with sleep disorders. If you’re not sure about what could be worsening your symptoms, you can look at an elimination diet, avoiding certain foods for periods of time, to identify any that may be triggering food sensitivities.
It’s important to listen to your body and, when needed, consult a healthcare professional. A doctor or nutritionist can offer personalised guidance, especially if you’re considering supplements or making significant dietary changes. Ultimately, the healthier your eating habits, the better equipped your brain will be to handle the challenges of ADHD, giving you more control over your symptoms and overall well-being.
Have you started on your journey to healthier eating?
***Please be advised that the information and tips provided are intended to support your wellness journey. However, we are not licensed healthcare professionals. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or wellness routine. Your health is a personal matter, and while we aim to offer guidance, we do not diagnose or provide medical treatment.***
Great article! Now I’m off to get some sardines 🙂