ADHD In Teens & Adults: Supplements That Make A Real Difference

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Along with providing information on whether Adult ADHD supplements might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements..

When looking for ways to manage ADHD, nutritional supplements can be a helpful addition to traditional treatments. Good nutrition can support neurotransmitter production and even help heal the brain. This article highlights how certain supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, and magnesium, may help manage ADHD symptoms. We’ll also dive into the latest research behind these supplements to see how they might work for you.

What Is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that mainly affects children but can continue into adulthood. But, with all the fancy testing, we could just as easily call ADHD by the name, “brain not working syndrome”. The diagnosis of ADHD says absolutely nothing about why the brain does not focus attention and remember instructions. What we do know is that ADHD has to do with how well a person’s brain cells work and how they are connected.

The brain is the most energy-hungry organ. It’s estimated that the adult brain is about 2% of total body weight and requires about 20-25% of total energy intake. So it shouldn’t be surprising that any nutritional inadequacy that affects cellular energy production will cause an energy brown-out that will lead to “brain fog” which will make any underlying ADHD worse.

And the brain can heal itself to a certain extent over the course of time by building new connections. The brain continues to develop rapidly into a person’s mid-20s. And the brain continues to evolve throughout life. But these new connections require optimal nutrition that doesn’t leave out any of the nutrients needed to build those new connections. Neuroplasticity continues lifelong, so it’s never too late to nourish your brain.

What’s Important For Managing Adult ADHD?

When it comes to managing Adult ADHD, specific focus on nutrient intake, exercise, and sleep play major roles. Understanding how each of these elements interacts with the gives a more comprehensive approach to managing ADHD symptoms, whether you are taking ADHD medications or not.

Nutrient Needs

For people with ADHD, certain nutrients are particularly important due to their role in brain function and neurotransmitter synthesis. Key among these is the role of specific nutrients in the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter often at suboptimal levels in ADHD. Nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, are known to support brain health and may assist in dopamine regulation. Similarly, B vitamins, especially B6, B9 (folate), and B12, are crucial for the synthesis of neurotransmitters including dopamine. A diet rich in these vitamins, which can be found in leafy greens, lean meats, and whole grains, might contribute to improved attention and impulse control in adults with ADHD.

Magnesium and zinc are other important nutrients for those with ADHD. Magnesium is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body and is important for brain function. Zinc influences neurotransmitter production and brain function. Including nuts, seeds, and legumes in the diet can help ensure adequate intake of these minerals.

Exercise Benefits

Regular exercise is not only beneficial for overall physical health but also plays a crucial role in brain health. Exercise stimulates the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses. This is particularly important in ADHD management as it can help improve cognitive functions like memory, attention, and executive function. Activities such as aerobic exercise, strength training, and yoga can all be beneficial in stimulating BDNF production.

Sleep and Nutrition

Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function and overall health. Nutrition plays a key role in sleep quality. Certain nutrients, such as magnesium and calcium, are known to support sleep. Magnesium, found in nuts, seeds, and whole grains, helps to maintain healthy GABA levels, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep. Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture melatonin, a hormone that aids in the sleep cycle.

The right nutrition supports the energy demands of the brain. The brain is an energy-intensive organ, consuming about 20% of the body’s total energy. Nutrients that support mitochondrial function, the powerhouses of cells, are crucial. These include B vitamins, CoQ10, and Omega-3 fatty acids. Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients can help support overall brain function and energy levels, which is particularly important for individuals with ADHD.

So, focusing on specific nutritional needs, the benefits of exercise for brain health, and the role of nutrition in sleep can provide a well-rounded approach to managing ADHD. Each of these aspects plays a key role in supporting brain health and function, reducing some of the challenges faced by people with ADHD.

What Nutritional Supplements Are Recommended For ADHD?

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are crucial for brain health and cognitive functioning. EPA and DHA are found in high concentrations in fish oil. These essential fats play a vital role in the structure and function of neuronal membranes. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to help in the development and functioning of the brain. This is thought to be due to omega-3s’ role in improving neurotransmitter efficiency, especially in the pathways involving dopamine and serotonin, which are critical for focus, mood regulation, and impulse control. [PMC9641984]
• Multivitamin: Julia Rucklidge, PhD is a top researcher in multivitamin supplementation in ADHD. In this video, she explains the research her team has done on multivitamins in ADHD. While much of her research is done in children, most of the nutritional principles discussed also apply to adults and teens with ADHD. A comprehensive multivitamin supplement can be a key component in managing ADHD, particularly for people whose diets may lack essential nutrients. [PMC5153567] [PMID: 24482441]
  • Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in brain development and function. Research has shown a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and increased severity of ADHD symptoms. It contributes to the maintenance of nerve cells and the formation of neurotrophic factors, which are important for brain health. [PMC6333940]
  • Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that plays an integral role in neurotransmission and brain function, making it important for people with ADHD. It is involved in the synthesis and modulation of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which is essential for cognitive processes such as attention and memory. [PMC8285486]
  • Antioxidants (Vitamins C and E, Selenium): Antioxidants like Vitamins C and E, and Selenium, are considered for their role in reducing oxidative stress, which some studies suggest may be elevated in individuals with ADHD. These antioxidants can help protect brain cells from damage and support overall neurological health. Supplementing with antioxidants could potentially aid in improving focus, reducing hyperactivity, and enhancing cognitive function, though specific research on their impact in ADHD is still developing. [PMC5946190]
  • Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is essential for brain health, particularly in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a critical role in regulating mood, attention, and energy levels. [PMC5153567] High-dose vitamin B6 is found to boost the activity of a brain chemical called GABA. GABA helps to calm and regulate the brain. [PMC9787829] In children, multi-year supplementation with B6 normalized ADHD behavior. [PMID: 24321736]
• Magnesium: Magnesium plays a crucial role in neurological health. [PMC7352515] This mineral has a calming effect on the nervous system and is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, many of which contribute to brain function. Magnesium can help regulate neurotransmitter systems, which is important for mood, attention, and sleep regulation. Supplementing magnesium is suggested given that inadequate intake is extremely common in the population.
• Probiotics: The gut-brain axis is a growing area of research of ADHD, with emerging evidence showing a link between gut health and brain function. Probiotics, which support a healthy balance of gut flora, may play a role in managing ADHD by improving gut health. A healthy gut microbiome can influence neurotransmitter production, reduce inflammation, and impact mood and cognitive function. Since probiotics help improve cognition children with ADHD and even in those with Alzheimer’s, they would be expected to benefit adults with ADHD. [PMID: 36529793]
• Rhodiola Rosea: An adaptogen that may help with stress management, a common challenge for individuals with ADHD. It’s believed to enhance mental stamina and resilience. [PMID: 32592534]
• Citicoline: Citicoline may also have a role in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some studies have shown that it may improve symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. [PMID: 26179181] [PMC4517431][PMC7878037]
• Ginkgo Biloba: Known for cognitive-enhancing properties, it’s thought to improve attention and memory, though its effectiveness specifically for ADHD is still being evaluated. There is evidence for it’s use in adolescents with ADHD as well as other cognitive issues. [PMID: 19815048]
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Bacopa monnieri is an Ayurvedic herb that shows promise in improving cognitive functions and reducing stress and anxiety, which are often co-occurring issues in ADHD. [PMC3537209]
• Phosphatidylserine: This phospholipid is important for brain cell membrane function and may aid in improving mental focus, memory, and cognitive abilities. [PMC9382310]
• L-Theanine: L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, is known for its calming effects on the brain. L-Theanine is believed to influence brain chemicals such as GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, which are involved in mood, sleep, emotion, and stress regulation. By modulating these neurotransmitters, L-Theanine can help reduce anxiety and hyperactivity while improving focus and attention. [PMC8794723]
• Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract): Known for its antioxidant properties, it’s suggested to help with managing symptoms of ADHD, though more research is needed. [PMC5946190]
• Melatonin: People with ADHD often struggle with sleep disturbances, which can worsen their brain function and ADHD symptoms. Melatonin is a hormone that plays a key role in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin supplementation can be particularly useful for establishing a more consistent sleep schedule, aiding in falling asleep and enhancing sleep quality. [PMID: 33121289]
• Iron: Iron is essential for oxygen transport to support normal brain function, as well as it’s requirement for the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine. Low iron levels have been associated with more severe symptoms of ADHD. Iron deficiency can lead to decreased dopamine receptor function and altered neurotransmission, which are likely to make ADHD symptoms worse. However, iron supplementation is only appropriate for people with low iron, as excessive iron can be harmful. /PMC5914242

Are ADHD Supplements Safe?

When thinking about using the supplements listed above, it’s good to know that they are generally considered safe when used in appropriate doses. Many of these supplements are naturally found in the body or come from herbs and foods we eat, so they’re well tolerated by most people. For example, Omega-3 fatty acids are important fats that support brain health, and minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium are vital for many body functions. Herbal supplements like Ginkgo Biloba and Brahmi have been used safely for centuries. Similarly, melatonin and L-Theanine are well-known for their safety and their ability to improve sleep and reduce anxiety. Probiotics, which help maintain a healthy gut, and a balanced multivitamin, which ensures you get all the essential nutrients, can also be safe options in managing ADHD.

Medication Interactions with ADHD Supplements

• Blood Thinners Interaction: Supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids, Ginkgo Biloba, and Ginseng can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners such as Warfarin and Aspirin. Ginseng, in particular, may also affect blood clotting.
• Antidepressant Interaction: Rhodiola Rosea may interact with antidepressants by affecting serotonin levels. Ginseng might interfere with the effectiveness of certain antidepressants.
• Antidiabetic Medications Interaction: For those on antidiabetic medications, Omega-3 fatty acids may require adjustments in medication as they can affect blood sugar levels. Similarly, Ginseng can lower blood sugar levels and interact with diabetes medications.
• Antihypertensive Medications Interaction: Omega-3 fatty acids and high doses of Magnesium may lower blood pressure, potentially enhancing the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
• Immunosuppressants Interaction: Ginseng might stimulate the immune system and could interfere with the action of immunosuppressants.
• Sedatives Interaction: Sedatives and CNS depressants’ effects may be enhanced by supplements like Melatonin, Valerian Root, and L-Theanine.
• Antibiotics Interaction: Iron and Zinc supplements can reduce the absorption and effectiveness of certain antibiotics.
• Bisphosphonates Interaction: Calcium, common in multivitamins, can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis and may also affect the absorption of thyroid medications, similar to Iron.
• Diuretics Interaction: Magnesium excretion can be increased by certain diuretics, possibly leading to deficiency.
• Hormonal Contraceptives Interaction: St. John’s Wort can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.
• Thyroid Medication Interaction: Iron can reduce the absorption and efficacy of thyroid medications. Calcium, common in multivitamins, can interfere with thyroid medication absorption.
• Cytochrome P450 Enzymes Interaction: Ginkgo Biloba and Valerian Root may interact with drugs metabolized by liver enzymes.

Supplement Interactions

The following supplement interactions are included for general information. These are unlikely to present any issues in the context of the recommended supplements.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Can interact with other fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin D, possibly improving their absorption.
• Zinc: High doses of zinc can interfere with the absorption and metabolism of other minerals, especially copper and iron.
• Iron: Excessive iron supplementation can reduce the absorption of zinc and potentially interact with calcium absorption.
• Magnesium: High levels of magnesium can interfere with the absorption of other minerals like calcium and can affect the balance of other electrolytes.
• Vitamin B6: Over-supplementation of Vitamin B6 can lead to imbalances in other B vitamins, such as B12 and folate.
• Melatonin: Melatonin can interact with other supplements that affect sleep and relaxation, like L-Theanine and Valerian Root.
• L-Theanine: May interact with other supplements that have a calming or sedative effect, such as Valerian Root or melatonin.
• Vitamin D: High doses can affect the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, and can interact with other fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin K.
• Probiotics: Can interact with high doses of minerals like iron and magnesium, as these minerals might affect the gut environment and the efficacy of probiotics.
• Ginkgo Biloba: Can affect the metabolism of other herbal supplements due to its influence on blood circulation and metabolism.
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Its effects on cognition and stress can be influenced by other supplements that affect the brain and nervous system.
• Rhodiola Rosea: When taken with other adaptogens or stimulants, it can affect overall efficacy and balance.
• Phosphatidylserine: The effectiveness of phosphatidylserine can be influenced by other fatty acids and fat-soluble nutrients.
• Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract): Its antioxidant properties can be influenced by other antioxidants in the diet or supplement regimen.
• Multivitamin: The balance of nutrients in a multivitamin can be influenced by individual nutrient supplements taken alongside it, especially if they are in high doses.

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To Sum It Up

Even though nutrition is not a part of the typical medical approach to ADHD, studies cited in this article show that nutrients in the form of food and supplements have the power to get at the root causes of brain dysfunction in ADHD. Studies have increasingly supported the role of specific nutrients in managing ADHD symptoms. For instance, Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, and magnesium have all been the subject of research studies that show their potential in improving focus for those with ADHD.

This research shows that the use of these supplements in addition to good food choices should be a part of every ADHD management plan. Think about consulting a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for personalized advice.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

UNREVISED DRAFT

Secure Ordering | Free Shipping | Best Quality | Best Prices

Along with providing information on whether Adult ADHD supplements might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements..

When managing ADHD, nutritional supplements can be a useful part of a broader approach that includes traditional treatments. Certain nutrients play a role in brain function and may support the way the brain communicates. This article looks at supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, and magnesium, and how they may relate to ADHD symptoms. It also reviews recent research to better understand how these supplements may support daily functioning.

What Is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that mainly affects children but can continue into adulthood. But, with all the fancy testing, we could just as easily call ADHD by the name, “brain not working syndrome”. The diagnosis of ADHD says absolutely nothing about why the brain does not focus attention and remember instructions. What we do know is that ADHD has to do with how well a person’s brain cells work and how they are connected.

The brain uses more energy than any other organ in the body. Although it makes up only about 2% of total body weight, it requires roughly 20 to 25% of the body’s total energy intake. This means that when nutrition falls short—especially in ways that affect how cells produce energy—the brain feels the impact. One common result is “brain fog,” which can make attention challenges like ADHD feel more pronounced.

The good news is that the brain has the ability to adapt and rebuild over time. It forms new connections as part of its natural development and repair process. This growth happens quickly through the teenage years and into a person’s mid-20s, but it doesn’t stop there. The brain continues to reshape itself throughout life.

For this ongoing process to work well, the body needs steady access to all the nutrients that support brain structure and function. Without enough of these building blocks, the brain may struggle to form and maintain new pathways. Since neuroplasticity continues throughout life, it’s always the right time to support brain health through balanced nutrition.

What’s Important For Managing Adult ADHD?

Managing adult ADHD involves more than just medications. Daily habits like eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest all play a role. Paying attention to these areas can support brain function and help ease some of the challenges that come with ADHD—whether or not medications are part of the treatment plan.

Nutrient Needs

Certain nutrients are especially important for people with ADHD because of how they support brain activity and neurotransmitter production. Dopamine, one of the key brain chemicals involved in focus and motivation, is often present at lower levels in people with ADHD. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids—found in fish oil—may help regulate dopamine and support brain health.

B vitamins, especially B6, B9 (folate), and B12, are also important because they help the brain make neurotransmitters. Foods like leafy greens, lean meats, and whole grains are good sources. Eating a variety of these foods may help with attention and impulse control.

Minerals like magnesium and zinc also play a role. Magnesium supports many brain-related functions, while zinc is involved in neurotransmitter activity. Nuts, seeds, and legumes can help provide these nutrients as part of a balanced diet.

Exercise and Brain Health

Physical activity benefits more than just the body—it also supports the brain. Exercise encourages the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps the brain grow and adapt. BDNF supports learning, memory, and other mental functions that are often affected in ADHD.

Regular movement, whether it’s walking, strength training, or yoga, can help improve focus and mood. These activities may also provide structure to the day, which can be helpful for staying on track.

Sleep and Nutrition

Good sleep helps the brain process information, manage emotions, and restore energy. Nutrition can influence how well you sleep. Magnesium helps support levels of GABA, a calming brain chemical that plays a role in sleep. Calcium helps the brain use tryptophan to make melatonin, the hormone that guides the sleep-wake cycle.

The brain uses a large share of the body’s energy—about 20%. To meet this demand, it relies on nutrients that support cellular energy, especially in the mitochondria. B vitamins, omega-3s, and CoQ10 are a few of the nutrients involved in this process. Getting enough of these through food or supplements may help with energy levels and mental clarity.

When managing ADHD, it helps to view nutrition, exercise, and sleep as connected parts of the same puzzle. Each one supports the brain in its own way, and together they may help ease common symptoms like mental fatigue, distraction, and restlessness.

What Nutritional Supplements Are Recommended For ADHD?

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), support brain structure and cognitive function. These fats are found in high amounts in fish oil and are an important part of the membranes that surround brain cells. They may also support how brain cells communicate, particularly in the pathways that involve dopamine and serotonin—two neurotransmitters linked to focus, mood, and impulse control. Their role in brain development and signaling is one reason why omega-3s are often considered in ADHD management.
• Multivitamin
• Julia Rucklidge, PhD, is a leading researcher studying the effects of multivitamin supplements in ADHD. In this video, she describes her team’s work, which mostly focuses on children but has findings that may also apply to teens and adults. A broad-spectrum multivitamin can help fill nutrient gaps that may affect brain function, especially in people whose diets are low in key vitamins and minerals. PMID: 24482441
  • Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports brain development and ongoing brain function. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked with more severe ADHD symptoms. This vitamin helps maintain healthy nerve cells and supports the production of compounds that protect brain structure and function. [PMC6333940]
  • Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that supports how the brain sends and receives signals. It plays a part in making and regulating neurotransmitters like dopamine, which helps with attention, memory, and other thinking skills. This makes zinc especially important for people with ADHD. [PMC8285486]
  • Antioxidants (Vitamins C and E, Selenium): Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, along with selenium, help protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Some research suggests that people with ADHD may have higher levels of oxidative stress. By supporting overall brain health, these nutrients may play a role in focus, behavior, and thinking skills. While research on their direct effect in ADHD is still ongoing, they continue to be studied for their impact on brain function. [PMC5946190]
  • Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 supports brain health by helping the body make key neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals are involved in mood, attention, and energy regulation. [PMC5153567] Higher doses of B6 have also been shown to increase GABA, a calming neurotransmitter that helps regulate brain activity. [PMC9787829] In some studies, children who took B6 over several years showed more balanced behavior related to ADHD. [PMID: 24321736]
• Magnesium: Magnesium supports brain and nervous system health and plays a role in hundreds of body processes, many of which affect how the brain works. It helps regulate brain chemicals involved in mood, focus, and sleep. Low magnesium intake is common, so supplementing may be helpful in people who are not getting enough. [PMC7352515]
• Probiotics: The connection between gut health and brain function is an area of growing interest in ADHD research. Probiotics help support a healthy gut environment, which can affect brain signaling, lower inflammation, and influence mood and thinking. Some studies show probiotics may improve attention and thinking skills in both children and adults. [PMID: 36529793]
• Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola is a plant known for its traditional use in helping the body manage stress. For people with ADHD, stress can be a challenge, and Rhodiola may help support focus and mental stamina. [PMID: 32592534]
• Citicoline: Citicoline has been studied for its effect on attention, behavior, and impulse control in ADHD. Some research suggests it may help reduce common symptoms and support brain function. [PMID: 26179181] [PMC4517431][PMC7878037]
• Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo is often used to support memory and concentration. Some studies have looked at its use in children and teens with ADHD, though more research is needed to understand how well it works. [PMID: 19815048]
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Bacopa is an herb used in traditional medicine for thinking and memory. It may also help ease stress and anxiety, which are sometimes present alongside ADHD. [PMC3537209]
• Phosphatidylserine: This nutrient supports the structure of brain cells and has been studied for its role in focus, memory, and mental clarity. [PMC9382310]
• L-Theanine: L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea. It may support calm thinking and balanced mood by influencing brain chemicals such as GABA, dopamine, and serotonin. It has been studied for its effect on focus and restlessness. [PMC8794723]
• Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract): Pycnogenol is a plant-based extract that may support attention and brain function through its antioxidant properties. Some research suggests it may be helpful for managing ADHD, though studies are still limited. [PMC5946190]
• Melatonin: Many people with ADHD have trouble falling or staying asleep. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Taking melatonin may help improve sleep patterns, which in turn may support focus and behavior during the day. [PMID: 33121289]
• Iron: Iron is needed for brain development and for making neurotransmitters like dopamine. Low iron levels have been linked to more severe ADHD symptoms. If iron is low, supplementing may help, but too much iron can be harmful and should only be taken when a deficiency is confirmed. /PMC5914242

Are ADHD Supplements Safe?

When considering the use of the supplements listed above, it’s helpful to know that most are considered safe when taken in appropriate amounts. Many of them occur naturally in the body or are found in everyday foods and herbs, which makes them well tolerated by most people.

Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, are important fats that support brain function. Minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium play roles in many body processes, including those that affect attention and mood. Herbal supplements such as Ginkgo Biloba and Brahmi have a long history of traditional use. Melatonin and L-theanine are also commonly used and are known for their role in supporting better sleep and calming the mind.

Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut environment, which may affect brain function through the gut-brain connection. A well-rounded multivitamin can help fill nutritional gaps, especially for those who may not get enough variety in their diet. Together, these supplements can offer support for people managing ADHD when used thoughtfull

Medication Interactions with ADHD Supplements

• Blood Thinners Interaction: Supplements like omega-3s, Ginkgo Biloba, and Ginseng may increase the chance of bleeding when taken with blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin. Ginseng may also affect how the blood clots.
• Antidepressant Interaction: Rhodiola Rosea may influence serotonin levels and could affect how some antidepressants work. Ginseng may also interfere with how certain antidepressants function.
• Antidiabetic Medications Interaction: Omega-3s and Ginseng may lower blood sugar levels. If someone is taking medication for diabetes, these supplements might require adjustments to keep blood sugar within a safe range.
• Antihypertensive Medications Interaction: Omega-3s and high amounts of magnesium may lower blood pressure. When taken with blood pressure medicine, they could increase the effect, so monitoring is important.
• Immunosuppressants Interaction: Ginseng may increase immune activity, which could reduce the effectiveness of medications meant to suppress the immune system.
• Sedatives Interaction: Melatonin, Valerian Root, and L-Theanine may strengthen the calming effects of medications used for sleep or relaxation.
• Antibiotics Interaction: Iron and Zinc can make certain antibiotics less effective by reducing how well they are absorbed.
• Bisphosphonates Interaction: Calcium, often found in multivitamins, can interfere with how the body absorbs medications for osteoporosis (like bisphosphonates) and thyroid medications. Iron may have a similar effect on thyroid medicine.
• Diuretics Interaction: Some diuretics may cause the body to lose more magnesium, increasing the risk of a deficiency.
• Hormonal Contraceptives Interaction: St. John’s Wort may lower the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.
• Thyroid Medication Interaction: Iron and calcium can reduce how well thyroid medications are absorbed, which may affect how they work.
• Cytochrome P450 Enzymes Interaction: Supplements like Ginkgo Biloba and Valerian Root may interact with medications that are processed by liver enzymes, which can change how the body handles those drugs.

Supplement Interactions

The following supplement interactions are shared for general awareness. These are not likely to cause problems when the supplements are used as recommended:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: May improve the absorption of other fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D.
• Zinc: Taking high doses of zinc can reduce the body’s ability to absorb other minerals, particularly copper and iron.
• Iron: Too much iron may interfere with how the body absorbs zinc and calcium.
• Magnesium: Large amounts of magnesium can affect calcium absorption and may influence the balance of other minerals in the body.
• Vitamin B6: Taking high doses for long periods may affect levels of other B vitamins like B12 and folate.
• Melatonin: May interact with other supplements used for sleep or relaxation, including L-theanine and valerian root.
• L-Theanine: Can have added effects when taken with other calming supplements such as melatonin or valerian root.
• Vitamin D: Higher doses can affect how the body manages calcium and phosphorus, and may interact with vitamins A and K.
• Probiotics: Large doses of minerals like iron or magnesium may affect how probiotics work by changing the gut environment.
• Ginkgo Biloba: May influence how other herbal supplements are processed, particularly those affecting circulation or brain function.
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Its effects on focus and stress may be influenced when taken with other brain-supporting supplements.
• Rhodiola Rosea: When used with other adaptogens or energy-boosting supplements, the overall effects may change.
• Phosphatidylserine: Its function may be affected by other fatty acids and fat-soluble nutrients taken at the same time.
• Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract): Its antioxidant effects may be influenced by other antioxidants in the diet or in supplements.
• Multivitamin: Taking individual nutrients in high doses alongside a multivitamin can affect how the full mix of nutrients is balanced.

When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.

Thank you for your support!

Order Supplements For Managing ADHD

To Sum It Up

Nutrition is often not included in standard medical care for ADHD, but research suggests that food and supplements may play a meaningful role in supporting brain function. Several studies have looked at nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, and magnesium, showing how they may help improve focus and attention in people with ADHD.

Including these nutrients through both diet and supplements can be a helpful part of a broader plan for managing symptoms. Working with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist can offer guidance that’s tailored to your needs and help you make choices that support brain health.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.