The Role of Gut Microbiota on ADHD in Children: A Narrative Review

Articles in Press

Document Type : review article

Author

Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Gonabad university of medical sciences, Gonabad, Iran.

10.22038/jpp.2025.90841.5593

Abstract

Background:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children, affecting their cognitive, behavioral, and academic development. Recently, increasing attention has been focused on the role of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis of ADHD.

Methods:

This narrative review synthesized data from recent studies evaluating the association between gut microbiota composition and ADHD in children. The literature was reviewed using databases including PubMed and Scopus up to early 2024.

Results:

Findings suggest that children with ADHD often have altered gut microbiota compared to their healthy peers, potentially influencing the gut-brain axis and neurotransmitter activity. Interventions such as probiotics and dietary changes may support symptom management by modulating microbial diversity.

Conclusions:

A growing body of evidence supports the role of gut microbiota in ADHD. While findings are promising, more robust, controlled clinical studies are needed to confirm causality and therapeutic applications.

Keywords

Journal of Pediatric Perspectives

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 04 October 2025

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