MHM Magazine

UNDERSTANDING ADHD AND OBESITY Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that often starts in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It’s characterised by patterns of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. In 2022, the CDC estimated that about 7 million children in the U.S. aged 3 to 17 were diagnosed with ADHD, which is about 11.4% of kids. In South Africa, around 5% to 10% of children are affected by this disorder. At the same time, obesity has become a significant global health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as having too much body fat that could harm your health. It’s often measured by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher in adults. As of 2022, WHO reported that 43% of adults worldwide were overweight, with 16% living with obesity. South Africa reflects these trends, with data from 2016 showing that about 68% of women and 31% of men were overweight or obese. Even more concerning is that about 13% of South African children aged 6-14 are classified as overweight or obese. THE LINK BETWEEN ADHD AND OBESITY There’s growing evidence that ADHD and obesity are connected, with each condition potentially making the other worse. HOW GENETICS AND GENDER PLAY A ROLE Genetics and gender seem to be important factors in the relationship between ADHD and obesity. For instance, studies have found that siblings of boys who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of ADHD. This suggests that obesity might be a risk factor for ADHD, showing the two-way nature of their relationship. Additionally, research has shown that people with the hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD tend to have higher BMIs, while those with the inattentive type are more likely to have higher BMIs, especially in females. Some studies even suggest that if a mother has a high BMI, her child is at a greater risk of developing ADHD. THE IMPACT OF EXECUTIVE DYSFUNCTION AND LIFESTYLE CHALLENGES A common issue in people with ADHD is executive dysfunction, which includes problems with organisation, self-regulation, and planning. These challenges can lead to irregular eating habits and difficulty maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In South Africa, the growing consumption of fast food adds to this problem. Children with ADHD often consume more sugary drinks and snacks, which are high in calories and contribute to weight gain. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AND ADHD Despite the hyperactivity often associated with ADHD, it doesn’t always lead to organised physical activity. Instead, it often shows up as restlessness, which doesn’t burn many calories. People with ADHD By Miché Moodley Psychometrist, Goldilocks and the Bears Foundation, Cape Town ADHD AND OBESITY: A TWO-WAY RELATIONSHIP 11.4% OF CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH ADHD IN THE USA 5-10% OF CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH ADHD IN SOUTH AFRICA 43% OF ADULTS WORLDWIDE ARE OVERWEIGHT 13% OF CHILDREN IN SOUTH AFRICA ARE OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE MHM | 2024 | Volume 11 | Issue 4 | ADHD and Obesity: A Two-Way Relationship MHM Issue 4 | 2024 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 15 MHM