14-day meal plan for adhd
Nourish your body and mind with our 14-day meal plan designed to support individuals with ADHD. Packed with brain-boosting nutrients, this plan offers a variety of flavorful recipes that can aid in maintaining focus and energy levels. Discover a delicious way to support your cognitive function with this ADHD-friendly meal plan.
Meal plan grocery list
- Salmon
- Eggs
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Kale
- Spinach
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Quinoa
- Sweet potatoes
- Brown rice
- Black beans
- Chickpeas
- Whole-grain oats
- Unsweetened Greek yogurt
- Avocado
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Olive oil
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
- Dark chocolate
- Water
- Green tea
- Mixed vegetables
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Meal plan overview
Nourish your body and mind with our 14-day meal plan designed to support individuals with ADHD. Packed with brain-boosting nutrients, this plan offers a variety of flavorful recipes that can aid in maintaining focus and energy levels. Discover a delicious way to support your cognitive function with this ADHD-friendly meal plan.
Foods to eat
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Incorporate fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts for cognitive support.
- Protein-Rich Foods: Choose lean meats, poultry, tofu, and legumes for sustained energy.
- Colorful Fruits and Vegetables: Include a variety of colorful produce for antioxidants and vitamins.
- Whole Grains: Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat for fiber and nutrients.
- Low-Fat Dairy or Alternatives: Include yogurt, milk, or dairy alternatives for calcium and protein.
- Hydration: Drink water throughout the day to support overall health and cognitive function.
- Regular Meals: Maintain regular meal times to provide a consistent source of energy.
- Healthy Snacks: Keep nutritious snacks like cut vegetables, fruit, and nuts for sustained focus.
- Balanced Nutrient Intake: Ensure a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats in each meal.
- Regular Physical Activity: Include regular exercise as part of a holistic approach to managing ADHD.
✅ Tip
Incorporate meals rich in zinc, like pumpkin seeds and cashews, which may help in managing symptoms of ADHD.
Foods not to eat
- Sugary Foods and Drinks: Minimize consumption of sugary snacks and beverages that may impact focus and behavior.
- Artificial Additives: Limit foods with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that may affect some individuals with ADHD.
- Highly Processed Snacks: Reduce intake of heavily processed snacks high in salt and unhealthy fats.
- Individual Dietary Needs: Adjust the meal plan based on individual preferences and nutritional needs.
- Regular Monitoring: Monitor changes in focus, behavior, and overall well-being regularly.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: For personalized advice on managing ADHD through diet, consult with a healthcare provider.
Main benefits
The 14-day meal plan for ADHD focuses on foods that may help alleviate ADHD symptoms. It includes omega-3 rich foods and avoids additives and processed sugars that might exacerbate symptoms.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
How to budget on this meal plan
Salmon and eggs are great protein sources that can be bought in bulk. Berries, leafy greens like kale and spinach, and nuts offer variety and are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. Quinoa, sweet potatoes, and brown rice can be more economical in bulk. Greek yogurt, avocado, and lean protein like chicken and turkey are also more affordable in larger sizes.
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Extra tips ✨
Any healthy snack ideas?
These snacks are great for supporting concentration and energy in individuals with ADHD:
- Mixed berries
- Whole grain toast with avocado
- Yogurt with granola
- Trail mix with nuts and seeds
- Cheese and whole grain crackers
- Vegetable sticks with Greek yogurt dip
- Banana with almond butter
What should I drink on this meal plan?
Individuals with ADHD may find that water, green tea, and herbal teas like chamomile or mint help maintain focus and calmness. Smoothies with a mix of fruits, vegetables, and a protein source can be both nutritious and appealing. Also, consider trying omega-3 fortified beverages for their potential brain health benefits.
How to get even more nutrients?
When it comes to ADHD, dietary adjustments can sometimes help manage symptoms. Focus on stable, energy-providing foods like complex carbohydrates found in whole grains and vegetables. Protein is crucial for neurotransmitter function, with sources including lean meats, fish, and beans helping to improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly from fish like salmon, are beneficial for brain health. Avoiding high-sugar and high-additive foods is also advised to prevent fluctuations in behavior and mood.
Meal plan suggestions
14-Day Meal Plan for ADHD
This meal plan emphasizes nutrient-rich foods that may support brain health and help manage symptoms of ADHD. Including a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide essential nutrients for cognitive function.
Day 1
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and tomatoes
- Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, avocado, and almonds
- Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted sweet potatoes and broccoli
Calories: 2000 Fat: 70g Carbs: 210g Protein: 120g
Day 2
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with mixed berries and a sprinkle of chia seeds
- Lunch: Quinoa and black bean salad with avocado, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
- Dinner: Turkey meatballs with whole-grain pasta and marinara sauce
Calories: 1950 Fat: 65g Carbs: 220g Protein: 110g
Day 3
- Breakfast: Oatmeal cooked with almond milk, topped with sliced bananas and walnuts
- Lunch: Chickpea and vegetable stir-fry with brown rice
- Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with roasted sweet potatoes and green beans
Calories: 2020 Fat: 72g Carbs: 215g Protein: 115g
Day 4
- Breakfast: Smoothie made with spinach, kale, mixed berries, Greek yogurt, and almond milk
- Lunch: Tuna salad sandwich on whole-grain bread with lettuce and tomato
- Dinner: Baked cod with quinoa pilaf and steamed broccoli
Calories: 1980 Fat: 68g Carbs: 210g Protein: 112g
Day 5
- Breakfast: Whole grain toast topped with avocado and sliced tomatoes
- Lunch: Lentil soup with carrots, celery, and garlic
- Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with mixed vegetables and brown rice
Calories: 2005 Fat: 66g Carbs: 218g Protein: 108g
Day 6
- Breakfast: Banana oat pancakes topped with Greek yogurt and berries
- Lunch: Spinach and strawberry salad with grilled chicken and balsamic vinaigrette
- Dinner: Grilled salmon with quinoa salad and roasted Brussels sprouts
Calories: 1975 Fat: 65g Carbs: 220g Protein: 110g
Day 7
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach and mushrooms
- Lunch: Turkey and avocado wrap with lettuce, tomato, and whole-grain tortilla
- Dinner: Chickpea curry with brown rice and steamed broccoli
Calories: 2010 Fat: 68g Carbs: 215g Protein: 114g
Day 8
- Breakfast: Yogurt parfait with Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and granola
- Lunch: Quinoa-stuffed bell peppers with black beans, corn, and salsa
- Dinner: Baked chicken with roasted sweet potatoes and green beans
Calories: 2040 Fat: 70g Carbs: 220g Protein: 116g
Day 9
- Breakfast: Smoothie made with kale, pineapple, Greek yogurt, and almond milk
- Lunch: Egg salad sandwich on whole-grain bread with lettuce and cucumber
- Dinner: Grilled shrimp skewers with quinoa tabbouleh and steamed asparagus
Calories: 1990 Fat: 66g Carbs: 218g Protein: 112g
Day 10
- Breakfast: Whole grain toast topped with almond butter and sliced strawberries
- Lunch: Greek salad with mixed greens, feta cheese, olives, tomatoes, and grilled chicken
- Dinner: Lentil and vegetable stew served with whole grain bread
Calories: 2030 Fat: 68g Carbs: 215g Protein: 114g
Day 11
- Breakfast: Chia seed pudding made with almond milk, topped with mixed berries and almonds
- Lunch: Turkey chili with black beans, tomatoes, and bell peppers
- Dinner: Baked tofu with quinoa salad and roasted cauliflower
Calories: 2000 Fat: 67g Carbs: 220g Protein: 112g
Day 12
- Breakfast: Overnight oats with Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and sliced bananas
- Lunch: Spinach and avocado salad with grilled shrimp and lemon-tahini dressing
- Dinner: Stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey, quinoa, and diced tomatoes
Calories: 2040 Fat: 69g Carbs: 218g Protein: 114g
Day 13
- Breakfast: Whole grain pancakes topped with Greek yogurt and sliced peaches
- Lunch: Chickpea and vegetable curry served with brown rice
- Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa pilaf and steamed broccoli
Calories: 2005 Fat: 66g Carbs: 220g Protein: 112g
Day 14
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach and tomatoes
- Lunch: Quinoa and black bean wrap with avocado, salsa, and lettuce
- Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted sweet potatoes and asparagus
Calories: 2020 Fat: 67g Carbs: 215g Protein: 115g
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.
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Want to learn more?
- Dietary patterns and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A systematic review and meta-analysis
- Diet and ADHD, Reviewing the Evidence: A Systematic Review of Meta-Analyses of Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trials Evaluating the Efficacy of Diet Interventions on the Behavior of Children with ADHD
⚠️ Keep in Mind
As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.
