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What’s Best: Supplements or Exercise? 

The debate around ADHD supplements vs exercise is a common one. Both approaches are considered useful, but they work in different ways. Supplements may help fill nutritional gaps that influence brain function, while exercise provides a natural dopamine boost that improves focus and mood. For many people, the best approach may not be choosing one or the other but combining both. 

When looking at ADHD supplements vs exercise, research suggests that exercise has more immediate benefits for energy regulation and attention. Physical activity helps reduce restlessness, supports sleep and lowers stress. On the other hand, certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium or zinc, can play a role in long-term brain health. Together, they can form part of holistic ADHD support, offering natural ways to manage symptoms without relying entirely on medication. 

How It Helps 

Natural Dopamine Boost

Exercise raises dopamine and serotonin levels, which are crucial for attention and motivation. 

Holistic ADHD Support 

Supplements and exercise combined create a balanced lifestyle approach to managing symptoms. 

Daily Functioning 

Regular physical activity paired with good nutrition promotes focus, stability and better sleep. 

Ultimately, the ADHD supplements vs exercise debate is not about finding a single solution. Instead, it is about creating a sustainable balance that supports both brain and body health. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Lifestyle Interventions (e.g., exercise, nutrition)

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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.