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ADHD Kids More Likely to Develop Unusual Eating Habits
Hey there! So, let’s chat about something that might hit close to home for some of us. If you have a kiddo with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), you might picture them as those hyperactive, skinny little whirlwinds. While it’s true that the stimulant medications often used for ADHD can dampen appetite, there’s also a chance for weight gain.
A recent study from Johns Hopkins University has shed some light on a concerning trend: kids with ADHD are more prone to a type of eating disorder known as “loss of control eating syndrome” (LOC-ES). This condition resembles binge eating, which is usually something we see in adults. The reasons behind this excessive eating are still a bit of a mystery, but experts suspect there’s a connection between the impulsive behaviors associated with ADHD and challenges in regulating appetite and food intake. Dr. Mia Thompson, who led the study, noted that children with ADHD have a staggering 12 times higher likelihood of experiencing LOC-ES compared to their peers without the disorder.
If a child with ADHD is also overweight or obese and has LOC-ES, the odds of them having ADHD shoot up to seven times compared to their counterparts without LOC-ES. It seems that these eating patterns may be linked to a more severe form of ADHD characterized by more impulsive behavior, Dr. Thompson explains.
So, if you’re a parent of a child with ADHD, it’s super important to keep an eye on their eating habits. If something seems off, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor and share your concerns. More research is definitely needed to further understand these findings, but experts recommend that medical professionals keep an eye out for both ADHD and eating disorders during treatment plans.
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Summary
Kids with ADHD are more likely to experience unusual eating habits, particularly a condition known as loss of control eating syndrome (LOC-ES). This disorder can be linked to impulsivity associated with ADHD. Parents should monitor their children’s eating patterns closely and consult healthcare professionals if they notice any concerning behaviors.