People with ADHD more likely to have digestive problems

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 11, 2026

A study analyzing data from nearly two million individuals found that people with ADHD are significantly more likely to experience digestive issues such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. This link underscores the need for healthcare providers to address gastrointestinal symptoms when treating patients with ADHD, as these problems can notably affect quality of life.

A recent analysis indicates that individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are significantly more likely to experience digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation. The findings stem from a comprehensive review of data involving nearly two million people diagnosed with ADHD.

The study, published by the University of Warwick, synthesized results from 23 separate investigations conducted in diverse countries including the United States, Sweden, Germany, and South Korea. Participants ranged in age from two to 65 years. Researchers found that gastrointestinal symptoms were about 50 percent more common among individuals with ADHD compared to those without the condition.

Constipation showed the strongest association, with those affected by ADHD twice as likely to suffer from this condition. Additionally, the risk of developing IBS was elevated by 58 percent in the ADHD population. Other digestive complaints such as indigestion also appeared more frequently among those with the neurodevelopmental disorder.

Sarah Blake, a student at Warwick Medical School and co-lead author of the study, noted that these symptoms “can have a real impact on daily life” but are often overlooked when attention is focused primarily on managing ADHD itself. Worldwide prevalence estimates indicate that about 2 to 3 percent of adults and approximately 5 percent of children have ADHD.

The underlying reasons for the link between ADHD and gastrointestinal problems remain unclear. Researchers have suggested that side effects from medications commonly prescribed to treat ADHD could play a role, although other biological or behavioral factors may also contribute.

The study highlights the importance of considering digestive health in the management of ADHD and encourages healthcare providers to monitor for gastrointestinal symptoms alongside neurodevelopmental treatment.

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