ADHD: Males with ADHD in Childhood Twice as Likely to Be Obese Adults

Boys who are diagnosed with ADHD in childhood are twice as likely to become obese as adults when compared with boys without the disorder.  These results are based on a study, published in the journal Pediatrics, which followed males over a 30 year period. An exact reason for the relationship between ADHD and obesity has not been found.  The study's authors did indicate that obesity in adulthood could be the result of poor planning and impulse control which are common symptoms displayed by the those with ADHD.

Although ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in males than females, the researchers indicate that a similar study should be done on females with ADHD.  

For more information, please see:

http://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/news/20130520/adhd-in-childhood-may-raise-risk-for-obesity-in-adulthood

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action