General advice for a diet for a child with ADHD
What are the healthiest foods and supplements for an ADHD brain? Studies show that a high-protein, low-sugar, no-additive ADHD diet combined with supplements like fish oil and zinc can help keep symptoms in check. Learn how to get smart about nutrition here.
Studies suggest that dietary changes may improve symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity in children with ADHD. Use these recipes to cook up meals that deliver the protein, complex carbohydrates, and whole grains that your child needs.
Why Kids with ADHD Aren’t Hungry (& What You Can Do About It)
If you have a child with ADHD, you may notice he (or she) isn’t as hungry as usual, especially when on ADHD medication. Some kids with ADHD experience a loss of appetite.
Certain ADHD medications are known to cause a loss of appetite. Studies tell us the overall rate of appetite reduction is about 60% in children who take an ADHD medication. Typically, the reduction in appetite is not significant enough to discontinue medications, however, it may warrant discussing a change in ADHD medication dosage with your doctor and/or the format of delivery to minimize the effect on appetite.
Many kids take their medication in the morning and then do not feel hungry all day. Their bodies, lacking the nutrients and fuel they need, go into “starvation” mode. In the evening, the medication wears off, the kids are extremely hungry, and they binge. Their brains tell their bodies: “Better eat up. This might be the only chance you're going to get.” Often, they over-consume, go to bed, and start the cycle the next day. In this way, lack of appetite can cause weight gain.
Nutrition is a complementary treatment for ADHD. It helps medication and behavioral management be more efffective. #ADHDdiet #healthyeating #brainfood
One of the most important aspects of successfully managing a child with ADHD is to have your eye on nutrition. Yet, nutrition is often the last factor considered. Good nutrition will not only help your child feel good and function well, it will support your child’s ADHD medication management while encouraging optimal nutritional status and growth.
1. Set up a Schedule for Eating
2. Select Nourishing, Wholesome Foods
3. Add a Bedtime Snack to Your Child’s Routine
Food Ideas
Vegetable or Fruit and a dip
Pizza roll ups- Add what you like and cut into bite sized pieces
Liquid lunch- When your child turns up his nose at even his favorite foods, high-protein drinks, shakes, and smoothies can provide daily nutrients. Send one along to school just in case he doesn’t eat the sandwich you prepared for him.
Trail Mix- This can be made together, can be eaten dry or with yoghurt