A narrative review of dietary behaviours, ADHD, autistic traits and well-being

Almobayed, Shikhah and Smith, Andrew ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8805-8028 2025. A narrative review of dietary behaviours, ADHD, autistic traits and well-being. European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research 12 (4) , pp. 544-549.

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Abstract

There have been many studies of ADHD/autistic traits. The present article provides a narrative review of ADHD/autistic traits, diet and well being. Methods: The review starts with descriptions of ADHD , autistic characteristics, health related behaviours and well being. Combinations of these factors are then considered. Results : This review found that unhealthy foods such as highly processed foods, fast food, sugary beverages, sweets, and salty snacks p lay a significant role in increasing ADHD and autistic symptoms. Healthy diets such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and milk products were found to be associated with reduced ADHD and autism symptoms. It was observed that adherence to appropriate heal thy behaviours, such as increased healthy food consumption, reduced junk food consumption, good sleep duration, and exercise, were associated with lower ADHD/autism symptoms. Moreover, there were associations between sleep problems, ADHD, and autism traits . The second part of the review investigated the relationship between ADHD/autistic characteristics and well being. There was an association between ADHD/autistic traits, reduced positive well being, physical health, life satisfaction, and quality of life, and increased anxiety and depression among this population. In addition, there was a lack of sleep duration among a sample of people with ADHD. However, the results were inconsistent. Research involving university and secondary students revealed no associ ation between ADHD/autism traits and well being outcomes when controlling for well being predictors. However, there were significant associations between ADHD/autistic traits and Strengths and Difficulties outcomes (hyperactivity, conduct problems, and pro social behaviour). Conclusions: The review of associations between ADHD/autism and well being indicated several studies that predicted well being. However, no study has examined the relationship between healthy behaviours, ADHD/autistic traits, and well be ing among adolescents using a holistic approach. Therefore, further studies are needed on this population.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
ISSN:	2394-3211
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	3 June 2025
Date of Acceptance:	31 March 2025
Last Modified:	04 Jul 2025 14:45
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/178721

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