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A Functional Nutrition Literature Review for Brain Fog and ADHD-Like Symptoms in Adults

Author

• Natalie Elisani Aldahondo-Matos, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Submission Date

4-28-2026

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition (BSHN)

First Mentor

Joel Exebio

Keywords

“ADHD in adults, ” “adult attention deficit, ” “brain fog, ” “diet and ADHD, ” “omega-3 and ADHD, ” “magnesium and ADHD, ” “iron and ADHD, ” “vitamin B12 and cognition, ” “choline and neurodevelopment, ” “gut–brain axis, ” “microbiome and cognition, ” and “nutrition and executive function.” Boolean operators such as AND and OR were applied to refine the search strategy.

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and ADHD-like symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, mental fatigue, and problems with executive functioning, are increasingly recognized in adults. Although medication is commonly used to manage ADHD, there is growing interest in whether nutrition may also play a role in supporting brain function and attention. Several nutrients involved in brain health including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, magnesium, iron, and choline  have been suggested as potential contributors to cognitive performance and attention. However, the research examining the connection between diet and ADHD symptoms is still limited and sometimes shows mixed results.

The purpose of this project was to conduct a structured literature review to explore the relationship between diet, micronutrients, and ADHD-related symptoms. To identify relevant studies, electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and EMBASE were searched for original peer-reviewed research related to nutrition, dietary patterns, and cognitive or attention outcomes. Studies involving adults were prioritized, although some pediatric studies were included to provide additional context when necessary. Both observational studies and randomized controlled trials (7 in total) were reviewed to better understand the strengths and limitations of the current evidence.

Overall, the literature suggests that nutrition may influence cognitive function through mechanisms related to neurotransmitters, inflammation, and the gut–brain axis. At the same time, many studies focus on children or other neurological conditions rather than adults with ADHD symptoms. Differences in study design and methodology also contribute to inconsistent findings. Because of these limitations, the current evidence does not provide a clear answer about the role of nutrition in ADHD. The findings from this review highlight the need for a well-designed randomized controlled trial to determine whether targeted nutritional interventions can improve attention, cognitive clarity, and mental fatigue in adults.

NSUWorks Citation

Natalie Elisani Aldahondo-Matos. 2026. A Functional Nutrition Literature Review for Brain Fog and ADHD-Like Symptoms in Adults. Capstone. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, . (44)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hpd_com_nutrition/44.