By: Sid Bidare
Every part of your body is connected; therefore, even two things that may be viewed as unrelated can have huge effects on each other. That is precisely the case for the gut microbiome and ADHD, as new research finds that gut health plays a massive part in developing ADHD. The microbiome has long been a focus of research for scientists. After all – entire fields and professions concentrate on what you should eat and drink and when to eat and drink to ensure maximum gut health. Your microbiome and gut health determine your attention, physical performance, and general well-being. The gut has a massive effect on many regions of the body, including ADHD. This connection is because of the gut-brain axis that can affect the central nervous system. Specifically, Omega 3 fatty acids can severely affect the development of the gut microbiome. In addition, the gut is innervated by branches of the vagus nerve, which can affect the formation and density of neurotransmitters. Specifically, new research has found that the gut microbiome can impact the generation of neurotransmitters by synthesizing them “de novo” or by influencing the neurotransmitter-related metabolism pathways. In addition, gut and microbiome health plays a huge role in digestion, which can significantly determine mental health and mental function. Many foods cannot be digested with only the enzymes naturally produced by your body, which makes your gut key. This is because there are some linkages in proteins and carbohydrates that the body does not have the appropriate enzymes to break apart. This means that your body must depend on bacteria from your gut to break down those foods into byproducts and nutrients that your body can use. Your body needs a variety of nutrients, proteins, and vitamins even to be able to synthesize key neurotransmitters that your brain can use. These neurotransmitters are vast determinants of your mental health and mental activity since they are especially what your brain cells use to communicate. Without working neurotransmitters, your mood and focus will be thrown off.
All in all, while research surrounding the impact of the gut microbiome on ADHD is new, the evidence has been promising for ensuring a healthy gut can mediate the symptoms of ADHD. Eating a healthy variety of probiotics, including yogurts, fruits, and vegetables, is essential to maintain gut health. Specifically, artichokes, leeks, and onions are beneficial for the gut. Beyond general recommendations, your doctor can develop a personalized gut health plan with you. Some doctors specifically recommend a diet to ensure microbiome health, which could be preferable to regular doctors in terms of microbiome health. Although ADHD and its symptoms are affected by various factors, including genetic and other nutritional-related factors, managing one’s gut health is essential to mediating the symptoms of ADHD.
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