Can diet and nutrition impact hyperactivity in ADHD?

PostedAugust 22, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Many families and clinicians wonder whether an ADHD diet can influence symptoms like hyperactivity and inattention. While food alone cannot cure ADHD, research suggests a link between nutrition and ADHD. Some foods may worsen symptoms, while others can help improve focus and behaviour. Understanding the effect of foods on hyperactivity helps parents and individuals make informed choices. Dietary adjustments are often used as a complement to therapy and medication, creating a more holistic approach to managing ADHD.

How Dietary Changes May Help

Below are some ways that an ADHD diet and nutritional changes can affect symptoms and support overall well-being:

Reducing Sugar and Artificial Additives

Some studies link high sugar intake and artificial colours or preservatives to increased hyperactivity, particularly in sensitive children. Choosing whole, minimally processed foods may help moderate energy levels.

Balancing Protein and Carbohydrates

Adding protein to each meal can help stabilise blood sugar and improve focus. Maintaining this balance may prevent energy spikes and crashes that can cause hyperactivity.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s, found in oily fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are linked to better brain health and may help reduce ADHD symptoms over time.

Although diet alone is not a substitute for medical care, thoughtful dietary changes can form part of a supportive ADHD management plan. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and advice on integrating nutrition with other treatments.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactivity.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.