Tag: Neurodivergence

Research indicates that a significant portion of neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism or ADHD, have difficulties with interoceptive awareness. So, what is it called when you can't tell when you're hungry? This challenge in perceiving internal bodily signals may be the reason, often stemming from issues with interoceptive awareness. This guide explores the condition and how to manage it effectively.

An estimated 50% to 70% of children with ADHD also experience sensory processing challenges, a phenomenon that often extends into adulthood. This can manifest as an intense aversion to certain food textures, making it a significant struggle for those who have ADHD to eat normally.

According to research, humans make around 226 decisions about food each day, highlighting the mental load associated with meal choices. Given this constant mental drain, it's perhaps no surprise that many people simplify their lives by opting to eat the same meals day in and day out. This seemingly monotonous habit, from the famously repetitive meals of celebrities to the simple routine of everyday individuals, has a variety of fascinating drivers.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the medical term for a loss of appetite, where you don't feel hungry, is anorexia. While not a standalone diagnosis, understanding the underlying factors is key to knowing why you may forget to eat and what steps to take next.

According to a 2024 study, up to 20% of children with ADHD may develop disordered eating behaviors, including selective eating. The habit of separating food on a plate is a common manifestation, and understanding why people with ADHD separate food involves exploring the neurological and sensory factors at play.

Studies suggest that individuals with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing disordered eating patterns, including those that involve excessive hunger. The connection is not straightforward, but often stems from the neurochemical, behavioral, and emotional aspects of the condition. Understanding why your ADHD might cause excessive hunger is the first step toward managing these challenges effectively.

Research indicates that some children with ADHD show a significant improvement in symptoms when placed on a restricted elimination diet. This suggests a potential link between what a person eats and their neurobehavioral symptoms, raising the question: do people with ADHD have food sensitivities?

While some sources report a fairly even distribution, emerging research indicates that Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) appears more frequently in males within clinical settings, especially among children. Unlike other eating disorders often associated with females, ARFID presents a unique gender pattern that varies depending on the specific population studied.

According to one survey of pediatricians, nearly two-thirds were unfamiliar with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), contributing to potential misdiagnosis with other eating disorders like anorexia. Given the overlap in restrictive eating and low weight, it is a crucial and complex question: **Can ARFID be mistaken for anorexia**?

Multiple studies suggest a higher prevalence of disordered eating patterns and binge eating disorder in individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This has led many to question, do people with ADHD consume more sugar? The answer is nuanced, involving brain chemistry, impulse control, and the search for quick rewards.