Abstract
BackgroundPoor health behaviors and variables are recently more documented in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) lifestyle which might be relevant to the pathophysiology of this disorder. The objective of this case-control study was to assess the nutrient intake, dietary patterns, and anthropometric variables in children with ADHD compared to normal peers.MethodOne hundred children diagnosed with ADHD were included and compared to 100 healthy, sex-matched normal children as the control group. Anthropometric indices, macronutrients, and micronutrients were measured and compared in both groups.ResultsADHD children were significantly consuming more simple sugars, tea, ready-made meals but less protein, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, zinc and calcium compared to the control group. The body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference of children with ADHD were significantly higher and were related to the severity and type of the disease.ConclusionUnhealthy eating behavior is more frequent in children with ADHD, compared to normal children which might warrant lifestyle intervention in this disorder.
Highlights
Poor health behaviors and variables are recently more documented in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) lifestyle which might be relevant to the pathophysiology of this disorder
ADHD children were significantly consuming more simple sugars, tea, ready-made meals but less protein, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, zinc and calcium compared to the control group
Unhealthy eating behavior is more frequent in children with ADHD, compared to normal children which might warrant lifestyle intervention in this disorder
Summary
Poor health behaviors and variables are recently more documented in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) lifestyle which might be relevant to the pathophysiology of this disorder. The objective of this casecontrol study was to assess the nutrient intake, dietary patterns, and anthropometric variables in children with ADHD compared to normal peers. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and poor planning are suggested to contribute to poor health behaviors in ADHD patients [9] Considering such diverse etiological factors, alternative or nonmedical treatments have been proposed. There is still an urgent need for studies investigating dietary-related factors between ADHD children and their typically developing peers
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