ADHD Nutritionists and Dietitians in Orange County, NY

Photo of Silvia Carolina Ross - SRoss Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
SRoss Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Highland Mills, NY 10930
Focus root cause , GUT issues , obesity, GERD, chronic disease , ADHD , insomnia , eating disorders, adrenal issues, DNA SNPs, children of any ages, adults and elderly.
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/breastfeeding/pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client! My method employs an integrative functional and holistic approach, along with structured lifestyle guidance. I offer group consultations and corporate events.
Focus root cause , GUT issues , obesity, GERD, chronic disease , ADHD , insomnia , eating disorders, adrenal issues, DNA SNPs, children of any ages, adults and elderly.
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/breastfeeding/pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client! My method employs an integrative functional and holistic approach, along with structured lifestyle guidance. I offer group consultations and corporate events.
(914) 415-6489 View (914) 415-6489
Photo of Tara Gagliostro, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNSC
Tara Gagliostro
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNSC
Serves Area
Hi I'm Tara Gagliostro. I'm a Functional Medicine Nutritionist devoted to helping you find optimal health. At Sage & Santosha, we support each individual by providing a holistic, personalized, patient centered approach. I am here to listen to your entire health history, collect data, research, review labs and drug and nutrient interactions while looking at your whole environmental, genetic and lifestyle factors to discern if these are affecting your health.
Hi I'm Tara Gagliostro. I'm a Functional Medicine Nutritionist devoted to helping you find optimal health. At Sage & Santosha, we support each individual by providing a holistic, personalized, patient centered approach. I am here to listen to your entire health history, collect data, research, review labs and drug and nutrient interactions while looking at your whole environmental, genetic and lifestyle factors to discern if these are affecting your health.
(973) 791-6254 View (973) 791-6254
Photo of Kimberly Jaumot, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Kimberly Jaumot
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Serves Area
As a nutritionist, my focus is working with the families of neurodivergent children to improve their nutrition and bring joy back to meal-time. Parents often face unique challenges when it comes to meal planning, and I am here to help alleviate some of that stress. Some families are seeking to improve the quality of food eaten where others want to help their child with gut issues. Whatever the reason, I am here to offer tailored solutions and practical advice to help improve your child's nutrition and overall well-being.
As a nutritionist, my focus is working with the families of neurodivergent children to improve their nutrition and bring joy back to meal-time. Parents often face unique challenges when it comes to meal planning, and I am here to help alleviate some of that stress. Some families are seeking to improve the quality of food eaten where others want to help their child with gut issues. Whatever the reason, I am here to offer tailored solutions and practical advice to help improve your child's nutrition and overall well-being.
(862) 276-2028 View (862) 276-2028

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Laura Henry - One Potato Two Tomato, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
One Potato Two Tomato
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Food Sensitivities, Food Intolerances, Metabolic Syndrome, Childhood Obestiy, Weight Management, Insulin Resistance Failure to Thrive, Restrictive Eating, Meal Skipping, Poor Hydration, Irregular Meal Patterns & Metabolism, Excessive Caffiene, Sugar and/or Energy drink Consumption, ADD and/or ADHD, PCOS & Palate Training.
Hello, My Name is Laura! I am a Tele-Nutriton Pediatric-Adolescent Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of expertise in weight Management, child, adolescent and family nutrition. Kids & Teens are my Jam! I understand the ins and outs of how different nutrients impact a child's growth and development in a healthy or nutrition disease state. My passion lies in empowering  parents, children and adolescents with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices about nutrition. I enjoy teaching and educating the nuances of nutrition science to parents and children in a way thats accessible, relatable and easy to understand.
Food Sensitivities, Food Intolerances, Metabolic Syndrome, Childhood Obestiy, Weight Management, Insulin Resistance Failure to Thrive, Restrictive Eating, Meal Skipping, Poor Hydration, Irregular Meal Patterns & Metabolism, Excessive Caffiene, Sugar and/or Energy drink Consumption, ADD and/or ADHD, PCOS & Palate Training.
Hello, My Name is Laura! I am a Tele-Nutriton Pediatric-Adolescent Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of expertise in weight Management, child, adolescent and family nutrition. Kids & Teens are my Jam! I understand the ins and outs of how different nutrients impact a child's growth and development in a healthy or nutrition disease state. My passion lies in empowering  parents, children and adolescents with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices about nutrition. I enjoy teaching and educating the nuances of nutrition science to parents and children in a way thats accessible, relatable and easy to understand.
(629) 263-4986 View (629) 263-4986
Photo of Jackie Silver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Jackie Silver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
I work one-on-one with clients through my virtual private practice, specializing in neurodivergent children, teens, and adults—including those with autism, ADHD, and intellectual or developmental disabilities—as well as physically disabled individuals such as those with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, and cerebral palsy.
We can focus on areas like meal prep and planning for executive dysfunction or food aversions, managing stress or binge eating, digestive health (constipation, IBS), low appetite, picky eating and diet expansion, malnutrition, and mindful eating skills (like listening to hunger/fullness cues and more).
I work one-on-one with clients through my virtual private practice, specializing in neurodivergent children, teens, and adults—including those with autism, ADHD, and intellectual or developmental disabilities—as well as physically disabled individuals such as those with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, and cerebral palsy.
We can focus on areas like meal prep and planning for executive dysfunction or food aversions, managing stress or binge eating, digestive health (constipation, IBS), low appetite, picky eating and diet expansion, malnutrition, and mindful eating skills (like listening to hunger/fullness cues and more).
(646) 679-2887 View (646) 679-2887
Photo of Laura Cordella, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Laura Cordella
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Focus areas include treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, where Laura has specialized training, intuitive eating, ADHD / anxiety / depression and other mental health conditions, behavior modification, and more.
Laura is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a background in psychology that focuses on helping clients cultivate a safe and nourishing relationship with food and eating while supporting their mental health. She believes health is so much more than what we eat, so she has a special focus at the intersection of nutrition and psychological wellbeing. Laura has won numerous awards for her holistic approach to care, including Dietitian of the Year at New York Presbyterian Hospital - one of the largest health systems in NYC.
Focus areas include treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, where Laura has specialized training, intuitive eating, ADHD / anxiety / depression and other mental health conditions, behavior modification, and more.
Laura is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a background in psychology that focuses on helping clients cultivate a safe and nourishing relationship with food and eating while supporting their mental health. She believes health is so much more than what we eat, so she has a special focus at the intersection of nutrition and psychological wellbeing. Laura has won numerous awards for her holistic approach to care, including Dietitian of the Year at New York Presbyterian Hospital - one of the largest health systems in NYC.
(914) 690-7909 View (914) 690-7909
Photo of Carla Coriaty-Hulla, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Carla Coriaty-Hulla
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10312
Carla's unique approach has been extremely effective in preventing the need for medicines for diabetes hypertension, ADHD, autoimmune disease, infertility, migraines, high cholesterol, autism and more.
Carla's mission is to provide personalized, high-quality care by integrating traditional nutrition practices with holistic & complimentary interventions.We are a full-service family nutrition practice of dedicated Dietitians who believe in working with our patients to maintain and improve their health using nutrition as medicine. We work together to serve your entire family for all of your nutritional needs in all stages of life. We believe in educating our patients to achieve the best outcome possible. Carla and her dietitians are board certified by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics & New York State certified.
Carla's unique approach has been extremely effective in preventing the need for medicines for diabetes hypertension, ADHD, autoimmune disease, infertility, migraines, high cholesterol, autism and more.
Carla's mission is to provide personalized, high-quality care by integrating traditional nutrition practices with holistic & complimentary interventions.We are a full-service family nutrition practice of dedicated Dietitians who believe in working with our patients to maintain and improve their health using nutrition as medicine. We work together to serve your entire family for all of your nutritional needs in all stages of life. We believe in educating our patients to achieve the best outcome possible. Carla and her dietitians are board certified by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics & New York State certified.
(347) 690-7243 View (347) 690-7243
Photo of Jessica Stamm, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Jessica Stamm
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
You might be dealing with ADHD, gestational diabetes, emotional eating, or burnout from trying every plan that just didn’t stick.
I work with busy moms and neurodivergent clients to create simple, realistic routines for managing blood sugar, emotional eating, and nutrition struggles. I utilize intuitive eating, support executive function challenges, and create plans that make life feel less overwhelming and more manageable.
You might be dealing with ADHD, gestational diabetes, emotional eating, or burnout from trying every plan that just didn’t stick.
I work with busy moms and neurodivergent clients to create simple, realistic routines for managing blood sugar, emotional eating, and nutrition struggles. I utilize intuitive eating, support executive function challenges, and create plans that make life feel less overwhelming and more manageable.
(916) 432-2453 View (916) 432-2453
Photo of Lisa R. Young - Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10028
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
(347) 970-8559 View (347) 970-8559
Photo of Kristin Paver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristin Paver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
(205) 880-1640 View (205) 880-1640
Photo of Asal Hakim - Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Garden City, NY 11530
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC., is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling. Giving you an abundance of practical tips and important resources for optimal eating and living, we use practical lifestyle and preventive approach to improving your health!
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC., is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling. Giving you an abundance of practical tips and important resources for optimal eating and living, we use practical lifestyle and preventive approach to improving your health!
(516) 407-7475 View (516) 407-7475
Photo of Diane Morgenroth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Diane Morgenroth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Online Only
My educational approach allows patients to obtain sound nutrition advice while focusing on individual needs and concerns. I provide a supportive therapeutic atmosphere to help implement healthy lifestyle choices. I work with individuals and families who wish to optimize physical energy, increase mental clarity, strengthen immunity, reduce cravings, improve digestion and fat burning, overcome mood swings, eliminate anxiety over food and body issues. I help clients achieve and maintain their health goals.
My educational approach allows patients to obtain sound nutrition advice while focusing on individual needs and concerns. I provide a supportive therapeutic atmosphere to help implement healthy lifestyle choices. I work with individuals and families who wish to optimize physical energy, increase mental clarity, strengthen immunity, reduce cravings, improve digestion and fat burning, overcome mood swings, eliminate anxiety over food and body issues. I help clients achieve and maintain their health goals.
(516) 537-9566 View (516) 537-9566
Photo of Madeline Kuras, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Madeline Kuras
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
(651) 412-7437 View (651) 412-7437
Photo of Robin Decicco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Robin Decicco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Online Only
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
(201) 289-5984 View (201) 289-5984
Photo of Isabelle Carren-Le Sauter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Isabelle Carren-Le Sauter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
I’m Isabelle, a Registered Dietitian and founder of Nourished Roots Nutrition, offering highly personalized, identity-affirming support for eating disorder recovery. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and individuals navigating chronic pain. My clients are thoughtful, accomplished, and ready for a liberatory path to healing. As a queer, neurodivergent, fat clinician, I deeply understand the exhaustion of navigating systems that weren’t made for you. If you have experienced care that didn't honor your experience, it is not your fault. You are not broken — you are also not alone.
I’m Isabelle, a Registered Dietitian and founder of Nourished Roots Nutrition, offering highly personalized, identity-affirming support for eating disorder recovery. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and individuals navigating chronic pain. My clients are thoughtful, accomplished, and ready for a liberatory path to healing. As a queer, neurodivergent, fat clinician, I deeply understand the exhaustion of navigating systems that weren’t made for you. If you have experienced care that didn't honor your experience, it is not your fault. You are not broken — you are also not alone.
(347) 801-2471 View (347) 801-2471
Photo of Danielle T Sobieski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Danielle T Sobieski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I’m Danielle Sobieski, registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of DS Nutrition. My practice provides one-on-one nutrition therapy, with a focus on building calm relationships with food and supporting overall health. Treatment specializations include nutrition therapy and counseling for: polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), weight cycling, chronic dieting, disordered eating, cardiovascular health, prediabetes, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, menstrual health, general healthful eating and eating competence.
I’m Danielle Sobieski, registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of DS Nutrition. My practice provides one-on-one nutrition therapy, with a focus on building calm relationships with food and supporting overall health. Treatment specializations include nutrition therapy and counseling for: polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), weight cycling, chronic dieting, disordered eating, cardiovascular health, prediabetes, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, menstrual health, general healthful eating and eating competence.
(646) 933-3176 View (646) 933-3176
Photo of Regina Fazzini-Belfiore, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDE
Regina Fazzini-Belfiore
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDE
Garden City, NY 11530
Helping you reach your goal weight in a healthy body and mind is my goal for you!! I have the tools to help you, guide you, and always be available for YOU! Your success is my reward!! I am a Registered Dietitian with PhD in counseling Nutrition for over 20 successful years. In addition. I am also a weight loss success story so I know what you’re going through. I gained 70 pounds having children and I have lost it all and maintained it for 25 years. I FEEL AMAZING. And so can you. I CAN HELP YOU. Everyday holds challenges! I will be with you to STICK IT OUT. I am here for. That is my promise to you. Ready? Let’s go!
Helping you reach your goal weight in a healthy body and mind is my goal for you!! I have the tools to help you, guide you, and always be available for YOU! Your success is my reward!! I am a Registered Dietitian with PhD in counseling Nutrition for over 20 successful years. In addition. I am also a weight loss success story so I know what you’re going through. I gained 70 pounds having children and I have lost it all and maintained it for 25 years. I FEEL AMAZING. And so can you. I CAN HELP YOU. Everyday holds challenges! I will be with you to STICK IT OUT. I am here for. That is my promise to you. Ready? Let’s go!
(516) 518-3686 View (516) 518-3686
Photo of Megan Fahey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP
Megan Fahey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Hello! I’m Megan Fahey, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT 200 a Registered Dietitian, Functional Medicine Nutritionist and Registered Yoga Teacher. My private practice, located between Palm Beach & NY, was founded to help women heal their relationships with food and free patterns of disordered eating. My nutrition sessions artfully blend eastern and western healing modalities. I believe that every person deserves to transform their relationship with food into the fullest expression of self-care. As a frequent traveler, avid reader, and amateur chef, I have an endless curiosity about the intersection between nature and culture.
Hello! I’m Megan Fahey, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT 200 a Registered Dietitian, Functional Medicine Nutritionist and Registered Yoga Teacher. My private practice, located between Palm Beach & NY, was founded to help women heal their relationships with food and free patterns of disordered eating. My nutrition sessions artfully blend eastern and western healing modalities. I believe that every person deserves to transform their relationship with food into the fullest expression of self-care. As a frequent traveler, avid reader, and amateur chef, I have an endless curiosity about the intersection between nature and culture.
(561) 349-4674 View (561) 349-4674
Photo of Amanda Ghighi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Amanda Ghighi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106
Amanda is an RD specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating. She is dedicated to helping individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda believes in creating a compassionate and supportive environment, incorporating evidence-based nutrition practices to guide clients toward sustainable changes. She strives to empower her clients to break free from diet culture and develop a nourishing and balanced approach to eating. Amanda offers compassionate, patient-centered nutrition care, focusing on non-diet, weight-inclusive principles.
Amanda is an RD specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating. She is dedicated to helping individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda believes in creating a compassionate and supportive environment, incorporating evidence-based nutrition practices to guide clients toward sustainable changes. She strives to empower her clients to break free from diet culture and develop a nourishing and balanced approach to eating. Amanda offers compassionate, patient-centered nutrition care, focusing on non-diet, weight-inclusive principles.
(551) 365-7752 View (551) 365-7752
Photo of Jenna Lenhart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IBCLC
Jenna Lenhart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IBCLC
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian who has spent much of her nutrition career helping those in the pediatric/young adult population. While seeing a variety of nutrition concerns, she specializes in helping patients in eating disorder recovery and seeks to promote a safe space to pursue a new healthy relationship with food. Jenna uses a patient-centered approach to working with clients, prioritizing patient goals for their health journey. With disordered eating, she uses an intuitive eating framework of counseling in addition to family based therapy to promote a safe and effective environment for healing.
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian who has spent much of her nutrition career helping those in the pediatric/young adult population. While seeing a variety of nutrition concerns, she specializes in helping patients in eating disorder recovery and seeks to promote a safe space to pursue a new healthy relationship with food. Jenna uses a patient-centered approach to working with clients, prioritizing patient goals for their health journey. With disordered eating, she uses an intuitive eating framework of counseling in addition to family based therapy to promote a safe and effective environment for healing.
(971) 449-1216 View (971) 449-1216
ADHD Nutritionists and Dietitians

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral condition characterized by difficulties in concentrating, impulsive actions, easy distractibility, and trouble staying still. ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in childhood, with symptoms starting as early as 3 years old, and is much more common in boys than girls. Individuals with ADHD often struggle to complete tasks at work or school, and they may experience challenges in their personal relationships due to communication issues. While some children may outgrow ADHD, many continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage ADHD. A combination of therapy, medication, and behavioral modifications is most effective in treating ADHD.

How does nutrition affect ADHD?

While no evidence directly supports the idea that nutrition plays a causal role in the development of ADHD, nutrition can play a large role on the symptoms of ADHD. Certain foods may influence ADHD symptoms. Consumption of foods high in sugar or simple carbohydrates, such as white bread, may cause blood sugar spikes that exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD; indeed, maintaining stable blood sugar levels can be crucial for maintaining consistent energy and focus. Similarly, avoiding caffeine—found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate—is particularly important for those with ADHD, as excessive caffeine intake can exacerbate hyperactivity and inattention.

Can ADHD be cured with nutrition?

While no evidence currently supports the idea that ADHD can be cured with nutrition, dietary modifications alongside proven ADHD treatments may be highly effective in managing the condition. For instance, consuming sufficient protein, particularly at breakfast, has been shown to increase focus and attention, which is beneficial for individuals with ADHD. Additionally, consuming healthy fats, especially foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, can greatly improve brain health. Lastly, individuals with ADHD may benefit from the structure of a nutrition plan that ensures regularly balanced meals and consistent meal times.

When is it useful for people with ADHD to see a registered dietitian?

While many people, even without an ADHD diagnosis, may benefit from seeing a registered dietitian (RD), individuals with ADHD may particularly benefit from consultation with an RD to assist in constructing a diet that is supportive of ADHD symptom management. An RD may be able to assist clients in becoming aware of their sugar consumption or caffeine intake, for instance, and help clients develop strategies to reduce their consumption of these ingredients. In addition, RDs specializing in clients with ADHD may be uniquely knowledgeable about the effects that ADHD medications can have on food intake. Close to 80% of people who take stimulant medications, which are frequently used for ADHD, experience appetite suppression while taking the medication; RDs specializing in ADHD thus often help clients on stimulant medication for ADHD develop strategies that ensure adequate dietary intake while maintaining a high-quality diet.