Characterization of the diet of pediatric patients with ADHD at a psychopedagogical care center

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that may be associated with inadequate dietary patterns. This study aimed to characterize eating behaviors and diet quality in children diagnosed with ADHD, based on the perspectives of parents or primary caregivers and teachers at a Psychopedagogical Care Center. A cross-sectional, prospective, and descriptive study was conducted, involving parents and teachers who individually and in person completed two standardized questionnaires: the Conners Questionnaire, which assesses behavioral symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity, and the Feeding Index (IAS), which evaluates diet quality. The mean score in the Conners scales was 20.5 points, indicating a notable presence of symptoms related to ADHD. In terms of diet quality, 50% of the children had diets requiring modifications; additionally, 100% consumed sweets daily, 50% consumed sugar-sweetened beverages, and 90% regularly consumed fruits. The results suggest a potential association between diets high in simple sugars and additives and an increase in symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and attention deficit. These findings underscore the importance of integrating nutritional counseling into the comprehensive therapeutic for children with ADHD.