Understanding ADHD Holistically: Why It’s Not Just a Brain Issue

What if ADHD wasn’t just about inattention or hyperactivity?
What if it was your body’s way of signalling that something deeper is out of balance?

ADHD isn’t simply a brain disorder — it’s often a reflection of underlying inflammation, nutrient depletion, gut imbalances, and an unsupported Nervous System. 

The Brain in ADHD 

ADHD affects a part of the brain called the prefrontal cortex, your “CEO,” which is responsible for focus, planning, and self-control.

This area relies heavily on a few key neurotransmitters:

Dopamine:
- Drives motivation, reward, and attention
- Low levels = boredom, forgetfulness, procrastination

Norepinephrine:
- Helps with alertness, wakefulness, and memory
- Low levels = foggy brain, mental fatigue

Think of dopamine and norepinephrine like the brain’s internal Wi-Fi - when the signal is low, everything slows down.

Now, why does your brain struggle to make enough of these? That’s where root cause medicine shines.

Inflammation in the Brain

Chronic low-grade inflammation often from gut issues or diet,  can interfere with neurotransmitter function and create oxidative stress in the brain.

Common triggers:
- Processed foods, additives, sugar
- Gut dysbiosis (bad bacteria overgrowth)
- Environmental toxins (mould, heavy metals, plastics)

Nutrient Deficiencies That Affect Neurotransmitters

You can’t make dopamine out of thin air. Your body needs building blocks.

Essential nutrients for brain chemistry:
- Zinc – required to regulate dopamine
- Iron – needed for dopamine synthesis
- Magnesium – calms the nervous system
- Omega-3 fatty acids – reduce inflammation and support focus
- B6 + Tyrosine – precursors to neurotransmitters

Many kids with ADHD are picky eaters or have absorption issues, leading to functional deficiencies - even with “normal” blood tests.

Gut-Brain Axis Dysfunction

Your gut makes over 50% of dopamine and houses your second nervous system.

Signs this could be a factor for you:
- Bloating, constipation, or food intolerances
- Yeast overgrowth or sugar cravings
- Behaviour changes after meals or certain foods
- Antibiotic history or early C-section delivery

A disrupted gut microbiome = disrupted neurotransmitter output = struggling brain function.

What We Test (And Why It Matters)

In our clinic, we often investigate ADHD using functional testing - not just symptom checklists because further investigations allow us to target the areas that are required and pinpoint deficiencies and problems that may not have been noted otherwise. 

We might recommend:
- Organic Acids Testing (OAT): looks at dopamine, serotonin, inflammation, yeast & mitochondria
- Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA): shows mineral balance, heavy metals, zinc/copper ratio
- Microbiome Testing: reveals gut bacteria, parasites, and inflammatory markers
- Food Sensitivity Panels: to uncover non-allergy reactions that affect behaviour

Because when you understand the root causes, the solutions are so much more targeted and effective.

Lifestyle Foundations to Remember 

- Blood sugar stability (protein-rich meals = better focus)
- Sleep hygiene (blue-light blockers, magnesium before bed)
- Movement & sensory breaks - especially for kids
- Screen limits and nervous system regulation tools

Whether you’re a parent trying to help your child thrive, or an adult feeling scattered and stuck - know this:

ADHD is not a character flaw. It's a neurochemical imbalance with clear drivers and effective support options.

You don’t have to choose between medication or nothing. There’s a third path: investigate what’s happening in the body and brain and support it. 

Ready for a Holistic ADHD Strategy?

We work with children, teens, and adults across Australia via Telehealth and in-person consults Via the Book Button