In short: No diet cures ADHD. Evidence suggests small benefits from omega-3 supplements for some children and from avoiding certain artificial colourings in sensitive children. Elimination diets should only be done with a dietitian.
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Parents often ask about the ADHD diet. Here is what research shows.
Sugar
Controlled studies have not found that sugar causes hyperactivity in children, despite the popular belief.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Meta-analyses suggest omega-3 supplements may have a small effect on ADHD symptoms in some children — far smaller than medication.
Artificial food colourings
A UK study found some mixtures of artificial colours and a preservative increased hyperactivity in some children. Reducing them is reasonable.
Elimination diets
Restrictive diets have shown effects in some studies but are hard to follow and risk nutritional gaps. Only try one with a registered dietitian.
Practical eating tips
- Protein-rich breakfast before medication reduces appetite
- Plan a bigger evening meal if appetite returns
- Regular snacks for children with sensory food preferences
- Talk to an OT or dietitian about very restricted eating
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Sources & further reading
- Wolraich et al. (1995), The effect of sugar on behaviour in children, JAMA
- Bloch & Qawasmi (2011), Omega-3 supplementation for ADHD meta-analysis, J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry
- McCann et al. (2007), Food additives and hyperactive behaviour, The Lancet
Last checked: 31 October 2026. If you spot something out of date, tell us.