Published on 26/01/2024 in International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Key Points

1. Polyphenols, found in commonly consumed foods, have demonstrated efficacy in managing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, which are closely linked to ADHD.
2. Clinical studies showed that polyphenols, both alone and in combination with traditional drugs, led to a reduction in ADHD symptoms and adverse events, as well as an increase in antioxidant effects and a decrease in lipid peroxidation.
3. The paper highlighted the potential of polyphenols, such as Pycnogenol® and resveratrol, to modulate neuroinflammation, reduce ADHD symptoms, and possibly have a protective effect against the risk of developing ADHD.

However, further research is needed to establish the clinical potential of polyphenols, particularly in adult populations, and to explore different types of polyphenols.

Building the Case: Polyphenols for ADHD

This systematic review explored the potential use of polyphenols as innovative therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study focused on evaluating the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects for managing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress processes associated with ADHD. It included 10 studies involving a total of 556 patients, and the research was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines.

The paper discussed the variability of polyphenol bioavailability and its influence on biological effects, emphasizing that the compounds may rebalance oxidative stress pathways through various mechanisms. The paper also presented findings that polyphenols have the potential to reduce symptoms and side effects associated with traditional ADHD therapies and improve ADHD prevention.

The evaluation of clinical outcomes following ADHD treatment with polyphenols alone and in combination with traditional drugs indicated a reduction in ADHD symptoms and a decrease in adverse events. Additionally, studies demonstrated an increase in antioxidant effectors and a reduction in lipid peroxidation with polyphenol treatment. The paper discussed Pycnogenol® and resveratrol, and their potential in modulating neuroinflammation and reducing symptoms associated with ADHD.

Overall, the paper suggested that polyphenolic compounds may serve as a promising therapeutic approach for managing ADHD symptoms, rebalancing oxidative stress pathways, and reducing adverse effects associated with traditional ADHD treatments.

However, the authors noted the need for further exploration and robust evidence to fully establish the clinical potential of polyphenolic compounds for ADHD management, especially in adult populations, and to expand the research on different types of polyphenols.

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