Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is associated with increased consumption of ultra-processed foods among...

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been linked to unhealthy dietary patterns, but its association with ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption remains underexplored. This study assessed the association between ADHD and UPF intake among children.

Data were obtained from the 2015-2016 Israeli Kids Health and Nutrition Survey, a nationally representative cross-sectional study. Parents/guardians provided demographic, health, and dietary information via face-to-face interviews. Anthropometrics were measured, and dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall. UPF consumption (grams/day and % of total food weight) was classified by the NOVA system and categorized by the median. Adjusted logistic and linear regressions examined associations between ADHD and UPF.

Of 1135 children aged 6-11 years included, 111 had physician-diagnosed ADHD. Median UPF intake was 342.9 grams/day and 16.7% of total food weight. Adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and intakes of energy, dietary fiber, and alpha-linolenic acid, ADHD was significantly associated with above-median UPF consumption, as grams/day (OR = 1.622, 95% CI: 1.010-2.604) and as % of total food weight (OR = 1.652, 95% CI: 1.058-2.578). Linear regression models yielded similar associations. No differences in UPF intake were found by stimulant treatment status.

ADHD is associated with higher UPF consumption, with potential influences in either direction.

This study is the first to demonstrate an adjusted association between physician-diagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and higher consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in children, both in absolute food weight and as a percentage of total food weight intake, independent of stimulant treatment status. Findings add to the literature by moving beyond general unhealthy dietary patterns to focus on UPF intake, a growing public health concern. The observed association may reflect ADHD-related eating behaviors, potential contributions of UPF constituents to ADHD-related symptoms, or both, with implications for ADHD care and child public health.