Managing Appetite and Weight in Children with ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) impacts the ability to maintain attention to tasks. Often, it also involves impulsive behavior – saying or doing things without stopping to think first – as well as hyperactivity.

How Common is ADHD?

ADHD is the most common developmental disorder in childhood, affecting 5–8% of children worldwide.

What are the Treatment Options?

Not all children and adolescents with ADHD need medication, particularly if they are functioning well at school and at home. Children with ADHD can also be supported with behavioral and educational strategies, as well as by working on the associated problems that commonly occur alongside ADHD, such as learning difficulties, emotional problems like anxiety, social challenges and autism spectrum disorder. However, around four in five children with ADHD are prescribed medication.

What are the Side Effects of ADHD Medication?

One of the most common concerns parents have about ADHD medication is their child’s appetite and weight. What can families expect? And how can parents optimize their child’s calories and nutrition?

Medication Can Reduce Symptoms

Decades of research shows that stimulant medication is the most effective way to reduce the main symptoms of ADHD. It can improve the ability to sustain attention and complete tasks, and reduce impulsive behaviors.

How Can You Boost Your Child’s Food and Nutrition Intake?

When starting on stimulants, some children lose weight. But they usually regain this over time as they get used to a different pattern of eating that includes a similar amount of daily calories. This might include:

• eating a hearty breakfast before the medication kicks in
• eating enjoyable snacks throughout the day, such as muesli bars or chips
• having a substantial after-school snack

What if My Child is Still Losing Weight?

Occasionally, weight loss is more problematic, and alternative solutions need to be considered. These might include:

• using a short-acting medication (these usually last for 3–4 hours) to just cover the mornings. Or adding an afternoon dose, after the child’s appetite has returned and they have eaten lunch
• trying one of the non-stimulant ADHD medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine (Intuniv). These are not usually as effective as the stimulants, but can be helpful to reduce ADHD symptoms. They have their own side effects, but do not suppress appetite
• using a lower dose of the stimulant (aiming to provide some benefits with fewer side effects) in combination with a non-stimulant medication

What About Children’s Height?

The other potential growth side effect of stimulant medication is on children’s height. There is some evidence that if a child takes stimulant medication consistently for many years, particularly in higher doses, they may lose 1–2 cm off their adult height.

What Else Do Doctors and Parents Look Out For?

Children and adolescents with ADHD who are treated with medication need to be monitored regularly. They should have appointments with their prescribing doctor (usually a pediatrician) or GP at least every six months to monitor the treatment’s effectiveness and side effects.

Their medical review is likely to include a discussion of academic, social and emotional functioning – sometimes with the aid of questionnaires completed by teachers and parents – and a physical check-up including measurement of height, weight and blood pressure.

Whether or not a child with ADHD takes medication, it’s important in all cases to pay attention to lifestyle factors that can influence their health, including their sleep, nutrition, exercise and use of electronic devices.

Conclusion

Managing appetite and weight in children with ADHD requires a comprehensive approach that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. By understanding the potential side effects of ADHD medication and taking steps to optimize nutrition and calorie intake, families can help their child manage their symptoms and achieve a healthy weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the most common side effect of ADHD medication?
  • Reduced appetite
• How can I boost my child’s food and nutrition intake?
  • Encourage a hearty breakfast, enjoyable snacks, and a substantial after-school snack
• What if my child is still losing weight?
  • Consider alternative solutions, such as short-acting medication, non-stimulant medications, or a combination of both
• How can I monitor my child’s height?
  • Regularly measure their height, weight, and blood pressure, and discuss any concerns with their prescribing doctor or GP