ADHD, Eating, and Food

Written By Lareena Brown

People with ADHD might struggle with eating and weight than neurotypical people because of the following:

1. Impulsivity

People with ADHD often struggle with impulse control. This can extend to their eating habits, leading to impulsive food choices and overeating. The inability to delay gratification or make mindful dietary decisions can contribute to unhealthy eating patterns and weight gain.

2. Emotional Regulation

Emotional dysregulation is a common feature of ADHD. Difficulty managing emotions can lead to emotional eating as a coping mechanism. This emotional eating may involve consuming comfort foods that are often high in calories, sugars, and unhealthy fats, contributing to weight gain. Research suggests that people with ADHD have lower dopamine levels than people without ADHD. These types of foods can be seen as a way of people with ADHD getting a “dopamine” hit.

3. Executive Function Deficits

ADHD can impair executive functions, which include planning, organising, and goal-setting. Such deficits may impact an individual's ability to plan and maintain a balanced diet or a regular exercise routine. These executive function deficits can further exacerbate weight management issues.

4. Medication Side Effects

Many people with ADHD manage their symptoms with prescription medications. Some of these medications may lead to changes in appetite and metabolism, potentially influencing weight gain. It’&s essential for individuals and their healthcare providers to closely monitor these side effects and make adjustments as needed.

5. Attention deficits and differences

People with ADHD may struggle with attention to internal cues such as hunger and satiety, leaving them susceptible to sudden extreme hunger which can lead to binge behaviours and/or non-nutritious food choices. This may be particular seen in the “hyperfocus” feature of ADHD. While people with ADHD struggle to sustain attention on things they find boring, they can hyperfocus on things they find interest for long periods of time.

Understanding the intricate relationship between ADHD, weight, and disordered eating is crucial for effective treatment. An experienced psychologist can help you by:

  • Implementing behavioural strategies to improve impulse control and emotional regulation

  • Teaching cognitive-behavioural strategies to manage disordered eating behaviours and promote healthier eating habits

  • Supporting you to create “scaffolds” for your executive functioning to help with planning your meals and exercise

  • Encouraging a holistic approach to wellness, including regular physical activity and nutritional education

  • Helping to nurture self-compassion and acceptance for eating difficulties caused by ADHD

  • Supporting you with medication adherence

If you have, or suspect you have, ADHD and are struggling with eating or weight concerns, contact me here to arrange a consultation.

Lareena Brown
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