Probiotics For ADHD Symptoms: Do They Really Help?

Probiotics refer to live microorganisms that can promote gut health. Probiotic supplementation is often used to restore healthy gut bacteria, and it can be recommended for numerous health concerns. Most commonly, these include general problems with digestion and the prevention of antibiotic-related stomach problems. In recent years, more and more researchers are developing an interest in how probiotics might affect brain development and the treatment of behavioral or mental health disorders. What about probiotics for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

In this article, we'll talk about the link between ADHD and gut health, whether probiotics can help with ADHD symptoms, and the types of probiotics on the market. Then, we'll discuss how to talk with your child's doctor about probiotic supplementation.

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ADHD And Gut Health

The worldwide prevalence of ADHD marks the condition as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders seen in children. Currently, ADHD is best treated with a combination of medication (often, central nervous system stimulants) and behavior therapy. Many people are looking for alternative treatment for ADHD and common psychiatric comorbidities. There's a strong connection between brain health and gut health, so exploring the link between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and gut health makes sense.

Some research suggests that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with differences in gut microbiota. A study published in April 2022 looking at the link between gut microbiota in infancy using stool samples and ADHD in preadolescents found differences in kids with ADHD vs. those without the disorder. More studies that replicate the findings are needed at this time, but it is interesting nonetheless. Other neurodevelopmental disorders, most notably autism spectrum disorders, have also been associated with differences in the gut.

Similar studies have revealed a potential link between psychiatric disorders like anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder and differences in gut microbiome. It's also worth noting that some studies suggest that gastrointestinal problems are more common in people with ADHD. All of this might make you wonder whether taking probiotic supplements could help a child reduce ADHD symptoms.

Can Probiotics Help ADHD Symptoms?

We know without a doubt that the connection between the gut and the brain, often called the gut-brain axis, is real. The gut-brain axis is a term used to describe the bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and gut microbiome. Mental health concerns like stress can affect our gut health, leading to altered brain function, brain activity, and the potential for a range of physical GI-related symptoms. The immune system, too, is affected by gut health. But, in research, is there any statistical significance between probiotic supplementation and ADHD symptoms? Not really.

Unfortunately, at his time, clinical studies have mostly been inconclusive when it comes to using probiotics as a way to improve symptoms of ADHD. While there's a relatively low risk for adverse events, current knowledge from pediatric research and research on adults alike both does not support probiotics as a way to manage or treat ADHD symptoms.

The research

One study found that kids and adolescents with ADHD who received LGG probiotic supplementation reported better health-related quality of life. The research team behind the study used a number of different tools to measure the effects of probiotic supplementation. Parents reported statistically significant improvement on the ADHD Rating Scale score in both the probiotic group and placebo group in the study, and teachers found no difference in behavior in the study population either way. This specific study looked at the use of a probiotic strain called Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC53103 (LGG). Due to the small study size and other factors, more research is needed at this time.

This is not the only research that has been conducted on neuropsychiatric disorders and probiotic use. A pilot study on thirty human subjects with ADHD ages 4-16 and probiotics, specifically using Bifidobacterium bifidum (strain Bf-688) at a dose of 5 × 109 colony-forming units (CFUs), found that at both the one-month and two-month marks of taking the probiotic, children experienced a decrease in inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms and an increase in body mass index. However, the study was small and did not include a control group, suggesting that results should be interpreted with caution.

Yet another study looking at early probiotic intervention for neurodevelopmental disorders found that taking probiotics in infancy (within the first six months of a child's life) may reduce the risk of neuropsychiatric disorder development later in childhood. The study looked at 75 infants and compared the results between the probiotic group and the placebo group. Once again, this study was unfortunately relatively small, and we need other data to confirm what exactly probiotic supplementation can do for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at large.

While further studies are needed to determine what probiotic supplementation can really do for ADHD symptoms, some people with or without an ADHD diagnosis may find probiotic supplements useful for other reasons. For example, otherwise healthy children with minor digestive issues.

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Types Of Probiotics

Like with many other supplements, probiotics aren't all created equally. Probiotic formulation makes a difference. The two main types of probiotic supplements you'll see are refrigerated and shelf-stable probiotics. The type of probiotic supplement that is best for you or your ADHD child may depend on why they are taking the probiotic, but experts frequently recommend refrigerated probiotics. Make sure to check the label on the probiotics you purchase for your child to confirm how to store them best. Some also consider how the products are shipped to ensure that organisms remain alive throughout transit. Additionally, not all strains are equally as beneficial. Physicians may recommend probiotics that include specific strains - usually, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

What about probiotic-rich foods?

Many people find that it's helpful to add probiotic-rich foods to their or their child's diet to boost beneficial bacteria without taking OTC supplements. Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, natto, and kimchi can all promote gut health without supplementation.

Are there risks to taking probiotics?

Probiotics are relatively low-risk, but there are some to consider. First, many probiotic supplements are not regulated by the FDA. Second, probiotics aren't suitable for everyone. Some children may experience minor adverse reactions, such as an uptick in gas or bloating, but may not experience beneficial effects. Additionally, some research shows that the use of probiotics may increase the risk of the methane-predominant variant of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

To understand whether probiotic supplementation is a good idea for your child, make an appointment to ask a medical professional about probiotics.

What Is The Best Gut Bacteria For ADHD?

Lactobacillus is the type of bacteria many researchers appear to be most interested in for ADHD right now. Still, it is critical to remember that no probiotic supplement has been approved for ADHD management at this time. Speaking with a medical professional is the best way to know how to choose a probiotic supplement for yourself or a child in your care.

Asking Your Doctor About Probiotics

Talk with your or your child's medical provider before you add probiotic supplementation to their routine. That way, you can avoid potential risks and get personalized guidance on what kind of probiotic supplement is best for your child, which can vary based on factors such as what you want to achieve with probiotic supplementation. Once you know what to look for, you can confidently choose a probiotic supplement that fits your child's needs.