Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhdAccording to a recent study conducted by researchers in the UK, this can affect a child’s weight, which can impact their health in childhood and later life. The study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, explains the association between ADHD and weight change from birth to adolescence, revealing a pattern of weight fluctuations that may have long-term health implications. Is.

The research team, led by Claire Reid of the University of Southampton, analyzed data from more than 7,900 babies born between 2000 and 2002. Of these, they focused on 442 children with ADHD and compared them with approximately 5,400 children who did not have ADHD symptoms. Or diagnoses.

The study showed that children with ADHD are likely to experience weight changes throughout their lives. Initially, these babies have low birth weight, putting them at risk for developmental delays and other health complications. “Children with increased ADHD symptoms are generally lighter at birth than their peers but are more likely to develop them later,” Reed said. obesity,

While the weight difference between children with ADHD and their peers leveled out by 9 months of age and remained comparable at 3 years, the disparities reemerged as the children grew older. By age 5, children with ADHD were more likely to develop obesity, especially those who were not taking stimulant medications for their condition. This trend continued into later childhood, with obesity risk peaking after age 7 in girls and after age 11 in boys.

The study found that the severity of ADHD symptoms played a role in weight trends, as children with more pronounced ADHD symptoms were more likely to have a higher body mass index (BMI) by age 11 to 14. The researchers noted that the period may occur between 3 and 5 years of age. This is a critical time when ADHD symptoms begin to affect weight gain, although the exact cause is unclear. One possibility is that children with ADHD may make impulsive food choices, leading to less healthy eating habits. “People with higher levels of impulsivity may be less likely to make healthy choices,” the researchers said.

How to Recognize Symptoms of ADHD in Children?

Early detection of ADHD can help manage not only the disorder, but also the health risks associated with it, including weight fluctuations. ADHD usually manifests as a combination of symptoms that affect a child’s attention span, impulse control, and activity levels. Here are signs to look for:

– Inattentiveness: Children with ADHD may have difficulty maintaining attention on tasks or play activities, often making careless mistakes. They may frequently lose items, struggle to organize tasks, and avoid activities that require sustained focus.

– Hyperactivity: Hyperactive symptoms include an inability to sit still, a tendency to fidget, or make frequent physical movements. These children may feel restless or unable to rest quietly and are often described as “on the go.”

– Impulsiveness: Impulsive behavior is common in children with ADHD. They may have difficulty waiting their turn, interrupt conversations, or make hasty decisions without considering the consequences.

– Social and academic challenges: ADHD can affect academic performance and social relationships. Children may have difficulty completing school work, often appearing disorganized or forgetful. Socially, they may have difficulty maintaining friendships due to impulsive or overly energetic behavior.

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