Eating with ADHD - Hacks for when there are just too many steps

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can include characteristics such as inattention, hyperactivity, disorganisation, and forgetfulness. Living with ADHD and deciding what to eat multiple times each day can quickly turn into overwhelm. Eating challenges may include:

• Forgetting to eat (hyperfocus, time-blindness)
• Overeating/cravings (appetite suppressing medication wearing off, boredom, seeking stimulation)
• Decisions overwhelm (too many steps to prepare food)

Here are our top 5 ADHD eating hacks to keep things simple, but nourishing:

1. Have readymade meals on hand for difficult days where you need to grab something quick and easy. Check out our guide to picking a nourishing convenience meal!
2. If meals are too overwhelming grab some snacks instead
3. Grocery shop online. Supermarket shopping can be a brain overload. Writing a list AND bringing green bags AND navigating people. Shopping from the comfort of home can reduce stress, minimise impulse purchases, and it is easier to check if you already have three bottles of soy sauce in the fridge (reducing that ADHD tax one online shop at a time!)
4. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Eating doesn’t always have to be perfect, just good enough. Eating something from each of the five food groups daily (fruit, vegetables, dairy/alternatives, meat/alternatives, wholegrains) can keep you feeling good about your food intake
5. Keep it simple. On the days it seems too hard, have a list of meals on hand with minimal ingredients

Let's get you started with some of our simplest recipes with minimal ingredients and minimal steps. These recipes make more than 1 serve so leftovers can be used for snacks or meals to be eaten later in the week!

Also check out our AI meal planning hack to help reduce food prep admin!