ADHD and the Menstrual Cycle

Clinical studies have demonstrated fluctuations in the severity of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms in women when undergoing hormonal changes throughout their menstrual cycle. Oestrogen modulates cognitive function and cerebral blood flow, and promotes the release of monoamines in the brain. During the follicular phase, oestrogen levels rise steadily, while progesterone levels are low. This rise in oestrogen promotes serotonin and dopamine function, reducing ADHD symptoms.

After ovulation, progesterone levels rise, and the beneficial effects of oestrogen diminish. Suggesting that during the luteal phase, ADHD symptoms may worsen. This presentation may look like greater irritability and low mood and a reduction in oestrogen may affect concentration negatively.

Another study showed that high trait impulsivity in young adult women is related to decreased levels of oestrogen and raised progesterone, linking the reproductive cycle to a particular ADHD symptom. From these results, it is important for clients with ADHD to track their cycles in order to predict these trends so that you can be aware of the association between the menstrual cycle and ADHD symptom severity to sustain optimal mental wellbeing.

Additionally, for those with ADHD, there are many implications on nutrition such as forgetting to eat, lack of motivation to shop/cook, being unaware of hunger cues, binge eating and suppressed appetite. There are many strategies to navigating these challenges such as setting alarms to eat, meal plans which give you a shopping list and easy recipes to follow and meal prepping so there are pre-prepared meals available when life gets overwhelming. While ADHD impacts nutrition, it is a bidirectional relationship. Nourishing your body and brain with nutritious, wholesome food regularly, will activate the release of dopamine, reduce binge eating and improve energy and focus.

Being aware of your cycle and when you are entering your luteal phase, which is when your ADHD symptoms may decline, is important in preparing yourself for these effects on eating patterns and concentration levels. Nourishing your body with the right nutrients is vital in managing ADHD symptoms and something I can help you with.