The comparison of dietary intakes of antioxidants in children with ADHD and healthy control; a case-control study

Introduction: Recent studies have identified ADHD as an inflammatory condition with immunological and oxidative responses. In addition to inflammatory and immunologicfactors, researchers suggested that oxidative metabolism may be involved in the development of ADHD. Some cross-sectional studies have found that oxidative balance isimpaired in patients with ADHD. The relationship between nutrients (macronutrients and micronutrients) and the immune system has always been relevant; some nutrients are known as immune system regulators and others as pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory agents. Few studies have been carried out on the role of food antioxidants in ADHD. The plasma levels of micronutrients such as zinc and copper, which play an essential role in the antioxidant defense mechanism, are lower in ADHD children than in healthy people Therefore, it is necessary to examine these factors in the patients. Methods: This study was a retrospective case-control study with ۲۰۰ ADHD children and۳۰۰ healthy children in control group aged ۴ to ۱۲ years. The demographic questionnaire, FFQ, and Baecke physical activity questionnaire were used. Dietary intakes ofantioxidant including of zinc, selenium, vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene obtain by NUTRITIONIST ۴ software from Food Frequencies Questionnaire.Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups as regards age, sex, weight, height, body mass index (BMI). In the case group, the mean the physical activity score (P-Value=۰.۰۴) was higher than they were in the control group (P-Value=۰.۰۰۱). Mean ± SD all of antioxidants contents in healthy group were higher than children with ADHD but for zinc and vitamin E were significantly. (P-Value=۰.۰۲۳ and P-Value=۰۰۱ respectively). Other variables were not significant predictors. Conclusion: The present study showed that the dietary intakes of antioxidants in the healthy group were higher than the ADHD children. Based on such evidence, researchershave suggested that oxidative stress might be important in the pathophysiology of ADHD. The findings of some studies showed that elevated oxidative stress increases therelease of dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter in ADHD, by increasing in membrane permeability to calcium ions. Our study shown that dietary intakes of zinc and vitamin Ein children with ADHD lower than healthy children significantly. Zinc may plays a pivotal role in the cell growth and cognitive evolution of children and its levels are highin sections of the brain responsible for structural and functional duties. In addition, vitamin E, which has antioxidant effects by reducing lipid peroxidation that may hasbeneficial effects on ADHD patients.

Keywords:

Antioxidants , Inflammation , ADHD , Child.