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

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BACKGROUND: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: ADHD is associated with higher UPF consumption, with potential influences in either direction. IMPACT: 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.

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