How does diet influence hyperactivity in ADHD?

PostedAugust 25, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Good nutrition is an important part of managing hyperactivity in ADHD. Although diet alone cannot cure it, healthy food choices can help stabilise energy, improve focus, and reduce behaviours that make daily life more difficult. Being mindful of sugar intake, identifying potential food sensitivities, and planning ADHD-friendly meals can contribute to better symptom management and overall well-being.

How Nutrition Supports ADHD Management

Here are some ways nutrition can help regulate hyperactivity, and strategies to try at home:

Limit Sugar and Processed Foods

High sugar intake and artificial additives can increase restlessness and mood swings in some children. Choose whole, minimally processed foods instead.

Check for Food Sensitivities

Some children react to common allergens like dairy, gluten, or certain dyes, which can worsen behaviour. Working with a doctor or nutritionist to identify triggers can help.

Incorporate Protein and Healthy Fats

Balanced meals with protein, fibre, and healthy fats help maintain steady blood sugar, supporting focus and emotional regulation.

Plan ADHD-Friendly Meals

Include nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, whole grains, lean meats, and omega-3-rich fish. These support brain health and sustained energy.

Stay Hydrated and Avoid Excess Caffeine

Dehydration and too much caffeine can amplify hyperactivity and distractibility. Encourage water and limit stimulants.

By paying attention to nutrition, families can create supportive routines that help manage hyperactivity more effectively. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and tailored guidance. 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.