Chinese Food Therapy for ADHD: A Natural Approach to Calming the Mind

ADHD, which stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, affects kids and adults alike, showing up as symptoms like being easily distracted, acting impulsively, and being hyperactive. While medication and therapy usually help, lots of people are on the lookout for other ways to boost their focus and keep their emotions in check.

In TCM, food isn’t just about filling you up—it’s seen as a type of medicine. Every ingredient is believed to have certain energy properties that can help bring your body and mind back into balance. So, how can Chinese food therapy help those dealing with ADHD?

The TCM View of ADHD

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ADHD is not viewed as a single "disorder" but rather a symptom of imbalances within the body. Organs involved in this imbalance include the liver, heart, kidney, and spleen. The common patterns associated with ADHD are:

1. Liver yang rising/wind; it leads to impulsivity and hyperactivity.

2. Heart shen disturbance; it contributes to restlessness and sleep issues.

3. Kidney yin deficiency; it affects concentration and cognitive performance.

4. Spleen qi deficiency; it results in poor focus and fatigue.

By identifying these patterns, besides in-clinic treatments, your practitioner may suggest Chinese food therapy that aims to restore balance by using everyday foods and herbs.

Top Chinese Food Therapy Recommendations for ADHD

1. Calm the Shen (Spirit)

Foods that nourish the Heart and calm the Shen can help with emotional regulation and sleep.

• Lotus seeds – Calm the mind, improve sleep, and boost focus.

• Longan fruit – Nourishes blood and soothes the spirit.

• Jujube dates – Support the spleen and calm anxiety.

  Try a tea made of lotus seeds, longan, and jujube for a calming bedtime drink.

  
  

2. Nourish Kidney Essence and Yin

Supports long-term cognitive function and concentration.

• Black sesame seeds – Boost Kidney Yin and nourish the brain.

• Walnuts – Tonify the kidneys and support memory.

• Goji berries – Nourish Liver and Kidney, support vision and mental clarity.

  Add goji berries and walnuts to oatmeal or porridge for a brain-boosting breakfast.

  
  

3. Strengthen Spleen Qi

Enhancing the Spleen can improve attention, digestion, and energy.

• Millet or brown rice – Easy to digest and stabilizing.

• Sweet potato – Strengthens the Spleen and is naturally grounding.

• Pumpkin – Supports digestion and nourishes Qi.

  Avoid excessive sugar, greasy foods, and processed snacks which weaken Spleen Qi and worsen ADHD symptoms.

4. Clear Liver Heat and Wind

For hyperactive or impulsive behaviors, cooling and detoxifying foods are recommended.

• Celery – Cools Liver Yang, calms irritability.

• Chrysanthemum tea – Clears heat and calms the mind.

• Cucumber and mung beans – Detoxify and reduce internal heat.

• Serve a light mung bean soup during the warmer months to calm agitation.

  
  

Lifestyle Tips from TCM for ADHD

Maintaining regular meals is essential in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as it helps strengthen the Spleen and stabilize energy levels throughout the day. Good sleep hygiene is equally important, as restful sleep nourishes both the Kidney and Heart systems, supporting cognitive function and emotional balance. Incorporating moderate exercise such as Tai Chi or Qi Gong can help regulate the flow of Liver Qi, reducing feelings of restlessness and hyperactivity. Additionally, reducing screen time is recommended to prevent overstimulation of the Shen (spirit), promoting a calmer, more focused mind.

In addition to using food therapy as a home remedy, acupuncture can significantly enhance your care plan. By consulting a registered acupuncturist at the Toronto Integrative Medicine Center, you can successfully restore energetic balance, soothe the mind, and improve focus and emotional regulation.

Book an appointment today.