A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF DIETARY BEHAVIOURS, ADHD, AUTISTIC TRAITS AND WELL-BEING

Shikhah Almobayed and Andrew P. Smith

ABSTRACT

Background:
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.

Keywords: Narrative review; ADHD; Autism; Diet; Mental health; Well being; Strengths and Difficulties; Junk food; Fruit and Vegetables; Sleep.