The importance of gut health for children with ADHD and autism
Many studies have found that children with ADHD and autism often have imbalances in their gut bacteria, higher levels of inflammation and a more permeable gut lining (also known as “leaky gut”).
As we know, the gut and brain are directly connected, and the balance of gut bacteria plays a crucial role in regulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin—key factors for focus, emotional regulation and behaviour. This connection highlights the importance of considering gut health when supporting neurodivergent children.
Common gut health issues in children with ADHD and autism
Food sensitivities - gluten, dairy and artificial additives can trigger digestive issues, brain fog or hyperactivity.
Constipation - children with ADHD and autism often struggle with constipation due to nervous system imbalances affecting gut function. Slow transit time and constipation contribute to dysbiosis and inflammation, as well as allowing toxins to be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, which can exacerbate symptoms.
Dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria) - a lack of beneficial bacteria can contribute to inflammation and poor neurotransmitter production.
Leaky gut - a compromised gut lining may allow toxins to enter the bloodstream, potentially worsening symptoms.
Nutrient deficiencies - zinc, magnesium and omega-3s are often low in neurodivergent individuals, which has a significant impact on focus and emotional regulation.
Nutrition tips to support gut health
Keep a food and symptom diary – tracking what your child eats along with symptoms like digestive issues, brain fog, mood swings or hyperactivity can help identify potential food triggers. Look for patterns over time, as reactions may not always be immediate.
Reduce processed foods & artificial additives - food colouring and preservatives have been linked to hyperactivity and gut inflammation. Many parents notice significant behaviour changes when these are removed!
Increase fibre & prebiotics - feed beneficial gut bacteria and support regular bowel movements by including fibre-rich, prebiotic foods like bananas, oats, and cooked/cooled potatoes in your child’s diet. Hydration is also super important!
Support a healthy gut microbiome with probiotics - fermented foods (if tolerated) or a high-quality probiotic can help restore balance.
Address nutrient deficiencies - prioritising a nutrient-rich diet is the best way to correct deficiencies, but many children with ADHD and autism have restricted diets due to sensory sensitivities and picky eating. In these cases, a high-quality multivitamin and multimineral supplement can help fill the gaps.
Support gut lining integrity – help repair and strengthen the gut lining with gut-healing nutrients like collagen, gelatin, glutamine and zinc. Bone broth (if tolerated), well-cooked vegetables and omega-3-rich foods can be beneficial.
Note: It's important to focus on one area at a time rather than trying to change everything at once. Making too many changes can be overwhelming - both for you and your child - and it becomes harder to pinpoint what’s actually helping. Children with ADHD and autism often thrive on routine and predictability, so introducing too many dietary changes at once may lead to resistance or exacerbate behaviour issues. A step-by-step approach allows for smoother transitions, better acceptance and more sustainable long-term improvements in both mood and behaviour.
Supporting gut health can be a powerful tool in managing symptoms of ADHD and autism. While every child is unique, addressing gut imbalances often leads to improvements in focus, mood and overall wellbeing.
References
Steckler R et al, 2024, ‘Disrupted gut harmony in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: dysbiosis and decreased short-chain fatty acids’, Brain, Behaviour & Immunity - Health, vol 40.
Bundgaard-Nielsen C et al, 2020, ‘Gut microbiota profiles of autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A systematic literature review’, Gut Microbes, vol 11 no 5, 1172–1187.
Checa-Ros A, 2021, ‘Current evidence on the role of the gut microbiome in ADHD pathophysiology and therapeutic implications’, Nutrients, vol 13 no. 1,
Leifler KS (2024), Autism and ADHD are linked to disturbed gut flora very early in life, Linkoping University, Sweden, viewed 24 February 2025, https://liu.se/en/news-item/autism-and-adhd-are-linked-to-disturbed-gut-flora-very-early-in-life
Ahrens AP, Triplett EW & Ludvigsson J, 2024, Gut microbe imbalances could predict a child’s risk for autism, ADHD and speech disorders years before symptoms appear, The Conversation, USA, viewed 24 February 2025, https://theconversation.com/gut-microbe-imbalances-could-predict-a-childs-risk-for-autism-adhd-and-speech-disorders-years-before-symptoms-appear-233962
Lee SY et al (2023), Gut Leakage Markers and Cognitive Functions in Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Children, vol 10 no.3, viewed 24 February 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10047799/