Is There a Link Between the Gut and Brain in Children with ADHD?

Did you know your child’s gut might be doing more than just digesting food? Research has shown that the gut and brain are constantly communicating with each other and this connection could play a powerful role in how children with ADHD think, feel, and focus.

The gut is home to trillions of bacteria, fungi, archaea and viruses that live together mostly harmoniously. Think of it like a garden filled with different types of flowers (and a few weeds), this community is collectively known as the microbiome. These tiny microbes do an amazing amount of different things to support our health, from helping produce vitamins, they regulate our immune system, and even make the brain chemicals (like serotonin and dopamine) that influence mood, motivation, and attention.

When the gut is healthy and balanced, children may experience:

• Better focus and concentration

• More stable moods

• Fewer sugar cravings and energy crashes

• Improved digestion and immunity

  
  

But when the gut is out of balance, due to diet, stress, or illness or toxins, it can lead to inflammation and disrupt these important brain signals, sometimes making ADHD symptoms worse.

Why It Matters

Around 95% of the body’s serotonin (“feel-good” neurotransmitter) is produced in the gut. Dopamine, which plays a key role in focus and motivation, is also closely connected to gut health. When the gut becomes imbalanced, it can contribute to neuroinflammation and affect the immune system.

Supporting gut health can therefore be a simple yet powerful step in helping children regulate their emotions and attention more effectively.

If you’re concerned about your child’s gut health or how it may be influencing their ADHD symptoms, there are several positive steps you can take. One option is microbiome testing—an easy, non-invasive at-home test that provides valuable insight and can help identify the best approach for rebalancing your child’s gut. In addition to testing, nourishing foods and high-quality supplements can play an important role in supporting gut health. The key is ensuring any supplements you choose are safe, appropriate, and tailored to your child’s needs.

If you’d like to learn more about testing options or personalised nutrition and supplement plans, feel free to contact me to arrange a free call.