Bitter-Sweetness: How Sugar Can Make Things Worse for Your Child with ADHD

Nutrition can have a profound effect on those living with attention hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While ADHD is not caused by eating habits, certain foods and exercise behaviors can either alleviate or exacerbate symptoms. Unfortunately, recent studies have demonstrated children with ADHD inattentive type are more likely to partake in unhealthy diet compared to children without ADHD. The study, published in Nutrients, showed that only 12% of children with ADHD will eat a healthy diet.  The results mean that those with ADHD are partaking in behaviors that makes life potentially more difficult. Therefore, it is increasingly important to become educated on healthy lifestyle habits to address and alleviate ADHD symptoms.

The biggest culprit of ADHD symptom exacerbation are simple sugars. Multiple studies have linked high-sugar snacks with restlessness and inattention. Likewise, artificial food additives are also associated with symptom severity for pediatric ADHD. Make sure to look at all nutrition labels in foods to avoid simple sugars and artificially processed food. It is important to make an extra effort for children with ADHD because, as mentioned above, children with ADHD may be more naturally inclined to eat foods that will worsen their inattention and restlessness. (There are plenty of treats free of dyes and are lower in sugar if you keep an eye out!)

It is vital that children with ADHD eat balanced meals that include proteins, healthy fats (such as Omega-3s), vitamins, and minerals. Start strong with nutritious breakfasts for best cognitive performance and to mitigate hyperactivity, whether in social settings or at school. For more specific diet ideas, check out the links below. In addition, it is helpful to maintain other healthy habits such as exercise that are also proven to relieve ADHD symptoms. Instilling healthy eating and exercise practices early on may contribute to the structure needed to effectively combat ADHD. 

When working with your healthcare provider, nutrition and exercise counseling will be one part of a treatment plan that may or may not also include ADHD medication and other interventions. At Pathways Associates, we will help your child through comprehensive evaluations and come up with solutions based on years and years of experience. Remember, knowledge is power… and we are here to help!  

Sources:

https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-diet-nutrition-sugar/

https://www.additudemag.com/poor-diet-common-among-children-inattentive-adhd-study/