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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Nutrition For ADHD And Dyslexia: Unlocking The Potential For Learning And Wellbeing by Dr. Emma Derbyshire reveals the transformative power of diet for neurodiverse minds.
Nutrition For ADHD And Dyslexia
In the UK, neurodevelopmental conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia are more common than many realize, yet awareness of how to support those affected is still evolving. Approximately 2.6 million people in the UK—708,000 children and 1.9 million adults—live with ADHD, while dyslexia, characterized by difficulties with processing speed, reading, and spelling, affects around 6.9 million individuals, or one in ten people. Often, these conditions overlap or coexist with other learning challenges, placing unique demands on the brain.
With long waiting lists for adult ADHD assessments—currently around 196,000 people in the UK—and limited discussion of holistic approaches in traditional diagnostics, a new perspective is emerging: the critical role of nutrition in supporting these remarkable minds.
For individuals with ADHD or dyslexia, the brain is frequently working overtime, making proper nourishment essential for optimal functioning. Historically, traditional approaches to these conditions have relied on formal assessments, workplace or educational accommodations, and, in the case of ADHD, medication. However, the potential of nutrition to complement these strategies is rarely highlighted in diagnostic reports. This gap has inspired a fresh contribution to the conversation: Nutrition for ADHD and Dyslexia: Unlocking the Potential for Learning and Wellbeing, a book that seeks to elevate the role of diet in supporting neurodiverse individuals.
Authored by Dr. Emma Derbyshire, an internationally renowned Registered Public Health Nutritionist and formally trained Dyslexia Assessor, the book is not intended to replace medical or educational interventions. Instead, it serves as a practical, evidence-based resource, drawing on over 350 peer-reviewed scientific studies to demonstrate how nutrition can fuel brain health and enhance wellbeing. Written in an accessible and friendly tone, it aims to bridge the divide between conventional approaches and the often-ignored dietary dimension of neurodiversity.
Structured around “20, 20, 20”—20 key chapters, 20 recipes, and 20 nutrient information tables—the book is designed for a wide audience, including parents, healthcare professionals, diagnostic assessors, Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), nutritionists, dietitians, and individuals with ADHD or dyslexia seeking actionable advice. Topics range from addressing common vitamin deficiencies and the gut-brain axis to the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, managing sensory sensitivities, and improving sleep, anxiety, and processing power.
Five Nutrition Tips for ADHD and Dyslexia
Dr. Derbyshire offers practical, science-backed tips to optimize brain function for those with ADHD or dyslexia:
- Start the Day with Water: The brain, composed of 60% fat and 40% water, thrives on hydration. Sipping water regularly and drinking a glass before starting the day supports cognitive performance.
- Learn in Short Bursts with Brain Food: Pair the Pomodoro technique—25-minute study intervals with 5-minute breaks—with nutrient-rich snacks like berries, dark chocolate, mixed seeds, or kefir yogurt to boost focus and retention.
- Oil the Mind: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish like salmon, sardines, and tuna, are linked to brain evolution and function. For non-fish eaters, options like walnuts, chia seeds, or canola oil can help.
- Harness the Power of Cinnamon: Studies in Nutritional Neuroscience suggest cinnamon’s compounds may enhance memory and learning. Sprinkle it into porridge, yogurt, or smoothies for an easy boost.
- Fuel Well and Use Time Wisely: A nutritious breakfast and consistent hydration set the stage for success. Maximize downtime—like commutes or waiting periods—by listening to podcasts or reviewing flashcards to reinforce learning.
A Call for Greater Awareness
Nutrition has long been sidelined in the conversation about ADHD and dyslexia, but Dr. Derbyshire’s work signals a shift. By emphasizing diet as a foundational element of learning and wellbeing, Nutrition for ADHD and Dyslexia empowers individuals and their support networks to unlock their potential. As awareness grows, this holistic approach could reshape how we nurture neurodiverse minds—proving that a well-fueled brain is a powerful one.
Dr. Emma Derbyshire
Dr. Derbyshire brings a wealth of expertise to this work. With a decade of experience as an award-winning university academic and dual specializations in pregnancy nutrition and public health, she is uniquely positioned to address the nutritional needs of neurodiverse individuals.
As the UK lead on choline—a nutrient vital for brain development—she has championed its importance, with her recent review in Nutrients Journal ranking in the top 25% of the journal’s research outputs. This paper explores choline’s role in ADHD, dyslexia, and autism spectrum disorder, underscoring her commitment to advancing knowledge in this field. Dr. Derbyshire’s neurodiversity-affirmative approach focuses on practical dietary strategies to support emotional regulation and mental performance.
Find more from Dr. Emma Derbyshire now:
Apple Books: https://apple.co/41YKtWh
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4iDExcs
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4ixb43L
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