--- title: 'ADHD and gut problems: What’s the link?' description: Constipation, indigestion, and diarrhea are more common in people with ADHD. Learn what might be behind the link and how to manage symptoms. slug: adhd-gut-health author: Heidi Cope, MS reviewer: Elizabeth Harstad, MD, MPH published: '2026-11-03T00:00:00.000Z' thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/3ZjFQEJv2yJmAa1BX0qZQc/a30ef39a344da33b5d034e4d2644edc5/GettyImages-1717095902__1_.jpg source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-gut-health lang: en --- # ADHD and gut problems: What’s the link? ## Quick take - A 2026 research review found that people with ADHD are more likely to have gut problems, including constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and indigestion. - Researchers can’t yet say whether ADHD causes these gut problems. Possible factors include irregular eating habits, ADHD medication side effects, and the connection between the gut and the brain. - Tracking your symptoms, building regular eating routines, and talking with your health care team can help you manage digestive problems. If you have ADHD and gut problems, you’re not alone. In fact, a 2026 research review in the [Journal of Attention Disorders](https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547261469626) showed that people with ADHD have 48 percent higher odds of experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms than people without ADHD.  The review found that people with ADHD had 118 percent higher odds of diarrhea, 97 percent higher odds of constipation, 58 percent higher odds of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and 52 percent higher odds of indigestion.  “We can’t yet say ADHD causes these gut problems, or exactly what is driving the link, but the pattern is striking enough to warrant attention,” said the study’s senior author, [Saran Shantikumar, PhD,](https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1143374) an associate clinical professor at Warwick Medical School.  Although researchers don’t fully know why gut problems are more common in people with [ADHD](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-adhd?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article), they have some theories — and there’s a lot we know about what can help.  ## What research says about ADHD and gut problems Researchers looked at combined information from 23 studies, involving data from more than 1.9 million people ages 2 to 65, from countries including the U.S., Germany, South Korea, and Sweden.  They found that people with ADHD had higher odds of the following gut problems:  | **Gut symptom** | **Increased odds** | | --- | --- | | Constipation | 97% | | Diarrhea | 118% | | Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | 58% | | Indigestion | 52% | | Abdominal pain | 88% | | Encopresis (loss of bowel control) | 332% | A separate study published in 2025 in [Scientific Reports](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-04303-x) found similar patterns for constipation, as well as an increased risk of IBS.  ## Why are ADHD and gut problems linked? Although ADHD and digestive symptoms aren’t talked about a lot, it’s something researchers have been trying to better understand for a while. As of now, it’s still unclear what causes what. Do ADHD symptoms cause gut issues, or do gut issues cause ADHD symptoms?  We don’t have an answer to that question just yet. But there are three main theories to help explain what might be happening.  ### 1. Irregular eating patterns If you have ADHD, you may have trouble [regulating emotions](https://www.understood.org/en/topics/managing-emotions?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article), which can sometimes lead to emotional eating or binge eating. You might also struggle with [impulsivity](https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/sorry-i-missed-this/adhd-impulse-willpower?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article), which can look like grabbing food or snacks without thinking or eating quickly without noticing you’re full. And because of [hyperfocus](http://understood.org/en/articles/adhd-hyperfocus?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article), you may also forget to eat on a regular schedule or even skip meals.  These [irregular eating patterns](https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547261469626) are linked to indigestion or discomfort in your stomach, bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain.  Clinical psychologist Monica Johnson, PsyD, breaks down more about how ADHD affects eating. [![Clinical psychologist Monica Johnson, PsyD, breaks down more about how ADHD affects eating. ](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/dtnPh5lSVMs/sddefault.webp)](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/dtnPh5lSVMs ) ### 2. ADHD medication side effects A review in [PLOS One](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0178187) looked at how ADHD medications like methylphenidate — a stimulant — affect your gut health. Researchers found that kids and teens who take methylphenidate, like [Ritalin](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/ritalin-what-you-need-to-know?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article) or [Concerta](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/concerta-what-you-need-to-know?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article), are more likely to have a decreased appetite, or not feel hungry as often.  [Stimulants](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/the-difference-between-stimulant-and-non-stimulant-medication-for-adhd?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article) may also cause abdominal pain. And people who use stimulants to help manage their ADHD may experience the following symptoms: - Indigestion - Heartburn - Stomach pain - Nausea - Vomiting - Bloating - Constipation  “Digestive upset (i.e., nausea or queasiness) infrequently occurs with both stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications,” explains [David Goodman, MD,](https://addadult.com/about-the-practice/media/curriculum-vitae-abstract/) of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. “But if it happens, it doesn’t usually last long before it goes away on its own. If it lasts longer than two weeks, contact your health care provider.” ### 3. Gut-brain axis and the vagus nerve Your [gut and brain are in constant communication,](https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547261469626) connected in part by the vagus nerve, which is actually a pair of nerves that run from your brain to your gut and play a role in everything from digestion and heart rate to breathing and swallowing. Your brain uses this pathway to send signals to your gut to help with digestion. And gut bacteria can send signals back to your brain that may affect your mood, behavior, and — as researchers are exploring — even [ADHD symptoms](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/signs-of-adhd-at-different-ages?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article).  Researchers are studying how changing the bacteria in your gut — [such as through probiotics](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110277) — may help with ADHD symptoms. However, more work is needed to better understand how to best use things like probiotics for people with gut problems and ADHD.  ## Gut symptoms at different ages Anyone with ADHD can have gut problems, but some symptoms are more common at certain ages. And behavioral differences at different age groups may impact how these symptoms show up.  ### Kids with ADHD Kids with ADHD can want to eat at irregular times or be [picky eaters](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-nutrition-tips?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article) due to sensory challenges and sensitivities to foods. Here are some common symptoms they might experience: - Stomach pain - Constipation - Encopresis  Encopresis is involuntary passage of stool outside of the toilet in children 4 years or older. This may look like your child having stool in their clothes after sleeping. It is usually caused by severe constipation.  ### Teens with ADHD Because older kids and teens with ADHD are more likely to deal with [anxiety](https://www.understood.org/en/topics/stress-and-anxiety?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article) or be affected by disruptions in their routine, you might see [issues like:](https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v26.i42.6626)  - IBS - Constipation - Heartburn  - Stomachaches  As with younger kids, picky or irregular eating can also make digestive problems worse.  ### Adults with ADHD In adulthood, you’re more likely to struggle with maintaining schedules, especially if you’re juggling other responsibilities like school, work, or parenting. These factors can make it more difficult to eat on a regular schedule.  If you have ADHD, you’re also more likely to [struggle with sleep](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-sleep-problems?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article), which can also impact your digestion. That may be why adults with ADHD sometimes experience the following gut issues: - Chronic gut discomfort - Heartburn - Constipation - IBS ## How to manage gut problems when you have ADHD It can be uncomfortable to experience gut issues, no matter your age. But luckily, there are a number of things you can do to address your symptoms, especially if your digestion problems stem from eating habits or medication side effects.  Here are some strategies that can help.  - **Track symptoms along with medication timing.** It can be hard to tell the difference between gut issues related to ADHD *behaviors *and gut issues related to ADHD *medications*. Tracking your symptoms can give your health care team a clearer picture of what you’re going through.  - **Flag any medication side effects.** Your health care provider can help you find the right medication and dose. “Sometimes, the digestive problems are intolerable and you may need to change the medication,” Goodman says. “Sometimes, the problems may improve if you slow your dose increases. Over-the-counter ginger pills or antacids may help with the nausea until your body gets used to the medication.”  - **Talk to a registered dietitian. **Consulting with a dietitian and building an eating schedule can help you avoid binge eating and overeating, as well as skipping or forgetting meals.  Gut problems can range from mild to severe and affect everyone differently. If you’re experiencing frequent or painful symptoms — or if the symptoms are affecting your quality of life — it’s important to talk to your health care team.  Although most gut problems aren’t serious, there are a few symptoms that warrant seeing a health care provider right away: - [Bloody or dark, black-colored stools](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK534810/)  - [Fevers or night sweats](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK534810/)  - [Inability to pass gas](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK513291/)  - [Unexplained weight loss](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK513291/) - Inability to pass stool despite over-the-counter treatments (i.e., a stool softener)  By tracking your symptoms and consulting with your health care team, you can figure out the gut health strategy that works best for you. --- ## Frequently asked questions ### Can ADHD cause digestive problems? ADHD is associated with digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn. Researchers don’t know for sure if ADHD causes these problems, but impulsive eating, forgetting to eat, and taking ADHD medications can make these symptoms worse. ### Can ADHD medication cause constipation or stomach issues? Yes, it can. ADHD medications, especially stimulants, can slow your digestion and make you less hungry — making it easy to forget to eat and drink. These behaviors are associated with constipation in people with ADHD. ### Are there any gut health supplements people with ADHD can take? There are [supplements](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-supplements?utm_medium=&utm_source=stacker&utm_campaign=stacker-tracking&utm_content=article) that can help with gut health, but always check with your health care provider before starting a new supplement. [Increasing your fiber intake](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK513291/) — with plenty of water — may help with constipation. Ginger pills, ginger chews, and antacids may help with nausea or heartburn, says Goodman. Although there are some studies that are looking at probiotics to help people with ADHD, more research is needed for a formal recommendation. --- ## Explore related topics and articles - [ADHD supplements: What you need to know](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-supplements) - [Cognitive disengagement syndrome \(CDS\): What it is and how it relates to ADHD](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-cds) - Cognitive disengagement syndrome \(CDS\) causes daydreaming, brain fog, and low energy — and it often overlaps with ADHD. Learn how CDS and ADHD differ, and what you can do about it. - [How to manage ADHD without medication ](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-alternative-treatment-what-you-need-to-know) - While medication remains the primary treatment for ADHD, combining it with lifestyle changes and alternative treatments can improve symptoms. Here’s what science says about non-medication ADHD remedies. --- ```json [{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-gut-health#webpage","url":"https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-gut-health","description":"Constipation, indigestion, and diarrhea are more common in people with ADHD. Learn what might be behind the link and how to manage symptoms."},{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"item":{"@id":"https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-gut-health","name":"ADHD and gut problems: What’s the link?"}}]},{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","datePublished":"2026-11-03T00:00:00.000Z","description":"People with ADHD are more likely to have gut problems like constipation and IBS. Learn what research says about the link — and what can help.","headline":"ADHD and gut problems: Why they’re linked","url":"https://www.understood.org/en/articles/adhd-gut-health","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.understood.org/#organization","name":"Understood for All Inc","logo":"https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/307jFAYQevghG8nQMCjh89/ccdbbec895765824db43f6d30b496e83/logo_lockup_navy.jpg"}},{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"Can ADHD cause digestive problems?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"ADHD is associated with digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn. Researchers don’t know for sure if ADHD causes these problems, but impulsive eating, forgetting to eat, and taking ADHD medications can make these symptoms worse. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can ADHD medication cause constipation or stomach issues?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, it can. ADHD medications, especially stimulants, can slow your digestion and make you less hungry — making it easy to forget to eat and drink. These behaviors are associated with constipation in people with ADHD. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Are there any gut health supplements people with ADHD can take?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"There are supplements that can help with gut health, but always check with your health care provider before starting a new supplement. Increasing your fiber intake — with plenty of water — may help with constipation. Ginger pills, ginger chews, and antacids may help with nausea or heartburn, says Goodman. Although there are some studies that are looking at probiotics to help people with ADHD, more research is needed for a formal recommendation. "}}]}] ```