Connection Between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Gastric Health?
Sarah-Nicole Bostan, Ph.D., a clinical health psychologist and director of behaviour change strategy at Signos, is leading research into the connection between gut health and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This area of study, while still in its infancy, is shedding light on potential new avenues for understanding and treating ADHD.
The onset of any mental health challenge, including ADHD, is often multifactorial, meaning there are multiple pathways which influence development. Neuroinflammation, while beneficial in protecting the brain against pathogens, can become detrimental if it occurs over an extended duration. One hypothesis involves the kynurenine pathway, where pathogenic microbes convert tryptophan into kynurenine, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and trigger neuroinflammation. This pathway has been noted to be notably more responsive in those with mental health concerns such as ADHD, depression, and schizophrenia.
Another hypothesis on the ADHD-inflammation relationship suggests a possible link between increased intestinal permeability and a disrupted blood-brain barrier. This could potentially explain the observed connections between gut health and ADHD symptoms.
Dr. Raphael Wald, a neuropsychologist, anticipates an improvement in ADHD symptoms with a more balanced gut microbiome. Preliminary studies have shown potentially positive results, with some indicating that probiotics may aid in easing ADHD symptoms. However, more clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Jenna Hope, a registered nutritionist, shares these approaches to rebalance the gut's microbiota: a varied, plant-based diet, consuming foods containing prebiotics and probiotics, limiting high-sugar foods, replacing refined grains with whole grains, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and exercising in moderation can help rebalance and nourish the beneficial bacteria and fungi in the gut.
The study of gut-brain interactions in relation to functional impairment from mental health symptoms is still in its infancy. However, with the ongoing research, we may soon uncover new and effective ways to manage and treat ADHD, offering hope for those affected by this condition.
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