Can exercise help with ADHD?

    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    Exercise is one of the most-recommended nonpharmacological treatments for ADHD in adults and children. Some of the benefits of exercise for ADHD are theoretical, and include promoting dopamine release in the brain, improving executive functions, increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and regulating behavior and attention.[1] Studies have shown that exercise can increase attention in children with ADHD,[2] and improve symptoms of ADHD and executive function in ADHD patients.[3]

    References

    1. ^Daniel PreiatoExploring the Link Between ADHD and Exercise
    2. ^Silva AP, Prado SO, Scardovelli TA, Boschi SR, Campos LC, Frère AFMeasurement of the effect of physical exercise on the concentration of individuals with ADHD.PLoS One.(2015)
    3. ^Mehren A, Reichert M, Coghill D, Müller HHO, Braun N, Philipsen APhysical exercise in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - evidence and implications for the treatment of borderline personality disorder.Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul.(2020)