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Why This Matters to You
A new study shows that babies born with ADHD typically start life weighing less than other babies–but something important happens between ages 3 and 5. They start gaining weight; and, by age 5, children with ADHD face a much higher risk of obesity.
This discovery is crucial for parents and healthcare providers because both ADHD and obesity has been shown to lead to other health problems. This includes, heart issues, breathing difficulties, and diabetes, and more.
Key Quote: “In summary, the current study shows that the weight shift from underweight to overweight in children with ADHD starts between the ages three to five…(t)his study further clarifies the direction of the association between ADHD and weight, while the mechanisms underlying weight gain in children with ADHD remain to be further explored.” (Study Source)
Doctors’ Expert Insights: A Multi-Level Approach to ADHD and Weight Management
Expert Consensus in 3 Key Steps
Start Early: Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine, emphasizes: “Don’t wait until there’s a problem. For kids with ADHD, this early childhood time period–ages 3 to 5–is especially important. Simple things like setting regular meal times can make a big difference in your children’s lives.”
Help the Whole Family: Dr. Shelandra Bell, Family Medicine, notes: “Yes, I also want to add to Dr. Uppal’s point–when it comes to healthy eating and ADHD, the whole family needs to be involved. The American Academy of Pediatrics has found that family-based programs work best. This means everyone in the house following the same healthy routines–it’s not just about the child with ADHD.
And as your kids get older, you should know that an hour of active play every day is generally suggested. For children with ADHD, combining physical activity with their usual treatment works better than either one alone. Find fun activities the whole family can do together.”
Think Ahead: Dr. Lindsay Boik-Price, Emergency Medicine, advises: “For expecting mothers, especially those with a family history of ADHD, healthy habits during pregnancy matter. That means regular check-ups and healthy eating before and during pregnancy. Research shows this can cut a child’s risk of weight problems in half.”
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Read more: Kids Who Don’t Move Much Could Face More Heart Problems as Adults. Doctor Explains
Practical Steps for Expectant Mothers
During Pregnancy: ensure that you’re getting regular doctor visits, building lifelong healthy eating habits; and, are doing some early planning for your child–especially, if you have a family history of ADHD.
Ages 2-5:
- Regular weight checks
- Set meal routines
- Make active play part of every day
School Years:
- Keep up with doctor visits
- Time medications and meals carefully
- Get the whole family involved in healthy habits
Teen Years:
- Engaging your children more directly in their ADHD care management
- Keep up physical activity
- Stay connected with healthcare providers
The Bottom Line
Working together–parents, doctors, and children–can make a real difference. Simple things like regular mealtimes, active play, and careful medication planning can help children with ADHD stay healthy as they grow.
The good news? Knowing these patterns means we can act early to help keep kids healthy.
Read the Full findings: Longitudinal Associations between ADHD and Weight from Birth to Adolescence. (View Source)
Read More: New Study Links Prenatal Diet to 22% Lower Autism Risk. Doctors Explain
The Health Standard Newswire.