ADHD linked to significant increase in gastrointestinal symptoms

A systematic review published in the Journal of Attention Disorders has found that individuals with ADHD face an almost 50% increase in overall gastrointestinal symptoms compared to those without the condition.

Analyzing data from over 1.9 million participants across 23 studies, researchers identified significantly higher odds for specific issues: nearly double the risk of constipation, a 58% increase in irritable bowel syndrome, and more than four times the odds of encopresis. The research, which included data from the USA, Sweden, Germany, and South Korea, covered individuals aged 2 to 65.

Researchers from the University of Warwick suggest several potential causes for this link, including ADHD-related traits like impulsivity and irregular eating patterns, side effects from ADHD medications, and differences in gut bacteria that may communicate with the brain via the vagus nerve.