ADHD and obesity: A narrative review from the perspective of a child psychiatrist

Abstract

PurposeThis narrative review is aimed at presenting recent evidence on the association between two widespread, chronic, and growing diseases in childhood: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity. Several hypotheses have been put forward about the correlations between the two conditions, concerning prenatal, perinatal and postnatal factors. MethodWe approached this topic through a search of recent literature on this subject, from the perspective of a child psychiatrist, a specialist in child development with an integrative view of the various factors involved in the onset, development and maintenance of a pathological condition, as well as a clinical approach, directed at addressing these factors in a combined manner. ConclusionThe most important point that emerged from our research and to be considered, as a child mental health specialist, seems to maintain an integrated view of the etiology and the management of mental disorders, through an integrative approach.