What Dietary Changes Help ADHD?

PostedOctober 14, 2025

UpdatedOctober 14, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

While balanced diet alone doesn’t treat ADHD, certain ADHD diet changes can support brain function, stabilise energy levels, and improve overall wellbeing. A consistent, balanced approach to nutrition may help reduce symptoms such as irritability, inattention, and mood swings especially when paired with other treatments.

Nutritional Habits That Support ADHD

Following are some nutritional habits to follow that support ADHD:

Balance Blood Sugar

Spikes and crashes in blood sugar can worsen irritability and inattention. Eating regular meals with complex carbs, healthy fats, and lean proteins helps keep energy and focus steady throughout the day.

Increase Omega-3 Intake

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fishlike salmon and mackerel, are known to support brain health. Some studies suggest they may improve attention and emotional regulation in people with ADHD.

Watch Artificial Additives

Some individuals with ADHD may be sensitive to artificial colours, sweeteners, and preservatives. While evidence is mixed, avoiding heavily processed foods may still be beneficial as part of overall healthy eating.

Stay Hydrated and Limit Sugar

Dehydration and high-sugar diets can impact concentration and mood. Encourage regular water intake and try to limit sugary snacks or drinks, which can lead to energy crashes and increased hyperactivity.

Moderate Caffeine and Screen Meal Timing

For adults, small amounts of caffeine may help focus, but too much can lead to jitteriness or sleep issues. Also, avoid skipping meals consistent eating supports predictable energy levels.

In conclusion, though diet isn’t a cure, small ADHD diet changes can support focus, mood, and health.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Signs, Symptoms, and Self-identification of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.