Summary: Association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders and intestinal disorders: A systematic review and Meta-analysis
# Association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders and intestinal disorders: A systematic review and Meta-analysis
## TL;DR
This study reveals a significant association between ADHD and increased risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), potentially linked to an altered gut microbiome.
## Summary
# A Link Between ADHD and Gut Health: Digesting the Details
A new study has found interesting connections between attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and certain issues related to gut health. In simple terms, the researchers noticed that people with ADHD were more likely to experience digestive problems such as constipation and excessive gas. The study suggests that these issues might be due to changes in the gut’s microbiome – the community of microorganisms that live in our digestive tract.
This comprehensive review of existing literature involved over 3.8 million individuals, including a significant number of people diagnosed with ADHD. The researchers found that people with ADHD were 25% more likely to have intestinal disorders. A particularly strong link was found between ADHD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with these individuals being 63% more likely to have IBS.
What’s more, the geographic location seemed to play a role. The link between ADHD and gut health issues was found to be stronger in the Eastern Mediterranean region than in the Americas, Europe, or the Western Pacific region.
While these findings are compelling, it’s important to note that the study revealed considerable variation in results, meaning further research is needed. Nevertheless, the study is significant because it provides additional evidence that ADHD may be associated with physical health issues beyond its well-known impact on mental health and behavior.
The researchers suggest that an altered gut microbiome could be the missing piece that connects ADHD and gut health. This adds to a growing body of research highlighting the importance of gut health in various aspects of our overall wellbeing. Future research in this area could lead to new ways of managing ADHD, possibly through dietary changes or probiotics designed to optimize gut health.
## Original Paper
[Association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders and intestinal disorders: A systematic review and Meta-analysis](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-04303-x)
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*This summary was automatically generated on 2025-06-11 22:46:12.*