Are Allergies Linked to ADHD? What Every Parent and Adult Should Know

If you or your child is living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), you're likely familiar with the challenges: trouble focusing, impulsivity, restlessness, and emotional ups and downs. But did you know that allergies may also be playing a role in how ADHD symptoms appear or intensify?

Emerging research suggests that the immune system, inflammation, and brain function may be more connected than we once thought. And this opens up new possibilities for supporting ADHD naturally - especially through nutrition.

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. Common symptoms include:

• Inattention and distractibility

• Hyperactivity or restlessness

• Impulsive or compulsive behaviour

• Difficulty with planning, organising, or completing tasks

While ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, it can persist into adulthood and continue to affect work, relationships, focus, and daily function.

What Are Allergies?

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances such as:

• Pollen, dust, or pet dander

• Certain foods (like dairy, gluten, or additives)

• Environmental irritants

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes

• Skin rashes or eczema

• Digestive discomfort or bloating

• Fatigue or poor sleep

• In more severe cases, stronger immune responses

Chronic allergy symptoms can impact not only the body, but also sleep, mood, energy levels, and even mental clarity.

Can Allergies Make ADHD Symptoms Worse?

While allergies don’t cause ADHD, they can contribute to or worsen symptoms in some individuals. Here are three ways this might happen:

Inflammation and Brain Function

Allergic reactions trigger inflammation, which can affect not just the body but also the brain. Some studies show elevated inflammation markers in individuals with ADHD, suggesting that the immune system may influence behaviour, mood, and focus.

Histamines and Neurotransmitters

During allergic responses, the body releases histamines. These chemicals can disrupt neurotransmitters like dopamine—which is already often imbalanced in ADHD. This may contribute to emotional dysregulation or poor concentration.

Sleep Disruption

Many allergy sufferers experience disrupted sleep, whether due to nasal congestion, itching, or general discomfort. Poor sleep is known to worsen ADHD symptoms, particularly in children.

Are Food Allergies or Sensitivities Related to ADHD?

While not everyone with ADHD has food allergies, many report improvements in behaviour and focus when certain foods are removed. Common dietary triggers include:

• Gluten

• Dairy

• Artificial food colours and preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate, red dye 40 or 3, yellow dye 5 or 6)

• Excess sugar or processed carbohydrates

Some parents and adults have found that a well-guided elimination diet can improve focus, reduce hyperactivity, and help with emotional balance. It's important to note that food sensitivities, intolerances, and allergies are not the same—but all can influence how someone feels and functions.

What the Research Says

• Children with eczema, asthma, or hay fever may be more likely to have ADHD

• The severity of allergy symptoms could sometimes reflect the intensity of ADHD behaviours

• Treating allergies or removing dietary triggers has led to modest improvements in focus and behaviour for some individuals

Although more research is needed, these early findings suggest an important link that deserves attention—especially for those looking to manage ADHD with a more holistic, natural approach.

What You Can Do to Support ADHD Naturally?

If you suspect that allergies or food sensitivities are affecting you or your child’s ADHD symptoms, here are a few steps to consider:

1. Talk to a Specialist

Work with a pediatrician, nutritionist, or mental health professional who understands the connection between diet, inflammation, and brain health.

2. Track Patterns and Symptoms

Use a symptom journal to note when mood shifts, or attention issues occur. You may start to notice patterns linked to diet, sleep, or environmental triggers and it can be a great help.

3. Try an Elimination Diet (Only With Professional Guidance)

Under the supervision of a qualified nutritionist, a targeted elimination diet can help you identify possible food triggers—while still supporting balanced nutrition and long-term health.

4. Focus on Fundamental Habits

• Eat an anti-inflammatory, whole-foods-based and possibly organic and “real food” based diet

• Prioritise good sleep hygiene

• Minimise exposure to allergens in the home

• Manage stress with calming daily routines

Nutrition: A Powerful Complement to ADHD Treatment

While medication can be a helpful part of ADHD management, nutrition provides powerful complementary support. A personalised nutrition plan can reduce inflammation, support neurotransmitter function, and stabilise mood and energy levels.

As a nutritionist, I work with both adults and families to create tailored food strategies that support better focus, calmer behaviour, and improved overall wellbeing—whether you're on medication or seeking a more natural approach.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the connection between ADHD and allergies offers a new layer of insight for parents and individuals navigating this condition. Nutrition is one of the most effective, widely available and natural tools we can use to support the brain, reduce triggers, and create more balanced daily living - not only for the patients but for the entire family!