Children with ADHD are twice as likely as others to have weight problems.
- ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by consistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- Children with ADHD are twice as likely to be overweight or obese as their peers without the disorder.
- Children with ADHD also tend to be in poorer physical condition than others.
New research showed that young children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) tend to have a higher-than-average BMI. The article exposing this connection was published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by consistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Typically diagnosed during childhood, this condition can persist into adulthood and negatively impact various aspects of life, including academic performance, social interactions, and work productivity.
Overweight: children with ADHD have poorer physical condition
The study included 223 children aged 4 to 7, all recruited in the United States as part of a large ADHD survey. Of these, 127 had clinically significant symptoms of ADHD. The cohort was predominantly male (66%).
During a one-hour lab visit with parents, the children’s height and weight were measured and they completed a brief fitness test. Parents also provided information about their children’s eating habits. At the end of the visit, an accelerometer was attached to each child’s wrist, and parents were responsible for ensuring that it was worn for the following week. This device measures physical activity and movement, providing data on intensity, frequency and duration.
The results showed that children with ADHD were twice as likely to be overweight or obese as their peers without the disorder. Children with ADHD also tended to have poorer physical fitness than others.
Overweight: Children with ADHD tend to consume more calories
However, there was no significant difference in diet quality between the two groups, although children with ADHD tended to consume more calories than those without the disorder.
“Our results show that children with ADHD are more likely to be less fit, consume more calories and ultimately have a higher BMI than children without the condition.” write the authors of the study at the end of their report. “As the obesity epidemic continues, identifying populations vulnerable to this disease is essential for prevention,” they conclude.
