Connection, Causes, and Remedies: The Link Between ADHD and Eating Disorders
In a growing body of research, a connection between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and certain eating disorders has been identified. This connection, while complex, sheds light on the comorbidities that many individuals with ADHD may face.
ADHD has been linked to Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) in both children and adults. This association is thought to be due to a variety of factors, including impulsive behavior, poor eating habits, and the role of the dopamine system.
Children with ADHD may have a greater chance of experiencing loss of control (LOC) eating, which can involve binge eating. This impulsivity, a key symptom of ADHD, may lead to disordered eating.
The dopamine system, which plays a crucial role in both ADHD and eating disorders, may be a common thread. The bingeing and purging subtypes of Anorexia Nervosa (AN) and Bulimia Nervosa (BN) have been found to be more common among people with self-reported symptoms of ADHD. Conversely, the restricting subtype of AN was least common.
The eating disorder that overlaps most with ADHD is Binge Eating Disorder (BED). In a 2017 study, 27% of people with BED had high enough scores on an ADHD screening test to suggest they had ADHD. Similarly, in one study, 26% of children who had ADHD also experienced binge eating, compared with only 2% of children without ADHD.
Treating comorbid ADHD and eating disorders typically involves a team of doctors and nutritionists. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) may be beneficial, as they help individuals learn to avoid negative thought patterns and build a positive body image. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be useful, as they can help with obsessive-compulsive and mood symptoms and may be beneficial in treating bulimia.
It's important to note that ADHD is rarely an isolated disorder, with about 70% of those living with ADHD having at least one other comorbid disorder. Approximately 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
While the connection between ADHD and eating disorders is clear, more research is needed to fully understand the complexities of this relationship. However, understanding this connection is a crucial step towards providing effective treatment and support for those affected.
