ADHD: What a dietitian would eat in a day

A preventive cardiology dietitian recommends a plant-forward, Mediterranean-style eating pattern to support blood sugar stability, brain health, and steady energy for adults with ADHD, and advises against ketogenic and ultra-processed-food-heavy diets.

Adults with ADHD often face challenges with focus, anxiety, and fluctuating energy. Michelle Routhenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian, described dietary patterns that may support steadier energy and brain health. She noted links between ADHD and higher rates of cardiovascular disease and commented on common online diet claims. Key points: - Routhenstein recommends a personalized, plant-forward, Mediterranean-style pattern emphasizing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. - She advised against ketogenic diets for primary ADHD due to lack of direct evidence and potential cardiovascular concerns. - Blood sugar stability is highlighted as important because fluctuations can worsen irritability, fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety. - Ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates have been tied to poorer cognitive outcomes in recent studies. Summary: The article reports that choosing nutrient-rich, steady-energy foods is a common recommendation for adults managing ADHD, and that some diets promoted online lack supporting evidence. Routhenstein also pointed out higher cardiovascular risks among people with ADHD and mentioned that individuals can work with a dietitian to identify foods that fit their needs. Undetermined at this time.