ADHD in Children: Girls With Childhood ADHD Twice as Likely to be Obese, Says Study

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ADHD children may face a new challenge as they reach adulthood, according to a new research study published in the journal Mayo Clinic proceedings on Thursday. Researchers are now suggesting that girls with ADHD are twice as likely to develop obesity later in life.

To examine the possible link of ADHD in girls and obesity, the team observed at 336 individuals born between 1976 and 1982 who were diagnosed with ADHD during childhood, reports Medical News Today. The researchers had another group composed of 665 non-ADHD subjects of the same age and sex for comparison.

Results showed that girls with ADHD are twice as likely to be obese in childhood or early adulthood compared to girls without the disorder.

Researchers thoroughly examined weight, height and details of stimulant treatments from medical records from 1976 until 2010 to identify the link between childhood ADHD and obesity. However, there appeared to be no association between the stimulant treatment and obesity among children with ADHD, reports Medical News Today.

"There are a couple of biological mechanisms that underlie both obesity and ADHD," said Dr. Seema Kumar, a pediatrician and researcher at Mayo Clinic Children's Research Center in Rochester, Minn., reports Philly.

It seems that the abnormalities in the brain that can cause ADHD have high chances of triggering eating disorders as well, according to Kumar. "Girls with ADHD may not be able to control their eating and may end up overeating," she said. "Because kids with ADHD don't have impulse control, it may also play a role in this."

Kumar also pointed out sleeping issues that often go with ADHD may also play a part in weight gain among the children.

Surprisingly, the association between ADHD and obesity was not found in men. In fact, boys with ADHD don't seem to have eating disorders, said Kumar. Boys with ADHD seem to be hyperactive, burning more calories. Kumar speculates that there may be a difference in eating patterns or types of ADHD that girls develop.

Dr. Brandon Korman, who is the chief of neuropsychology at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami, also observed the same. Boys tend to act out while girls may sort to eating behaviours, he said, as reported in Philly. Girls were found to take things internally and not take it out in physical activities.

While the Mayo research shows an association between ADHD and obesity, Korman said it doesn't mean it will definitely happen. Korman advised parents and doctors to be aware of the association, however, they should also realize it is only a possibility.

Previous studies have found that kids with ADHD are heavier than average and symptoms are twice as likely in overweight children. Since childhood and adult obesity has risen dramatically over the past 30 years, it is important to understand the different causes.

To understand ADHD, check out the video below: