A common, multifaceted… and still mysterious disorder
In French classrooms, between 3.5% and 5.6% of students are living with attention deficit disorder, whether or not it is accompanied by hyperactivity. Diagnosis is generally made around the age of 9-10 and falls into three main profiles:
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Predominant inattention (≈ 47% of children)
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Hyperactivity / impulsivity (≈ 36%)
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Mixed form combining inattention + hyperactivity (≈ 17%)
Genetics plays a recognized role, but it doesn't explain everything: the environment, from fetal life onward, also contributes to vulnerability to ADHD. Among the avenues already documented: exposure to lead or pesticides, iron or omega-3 deficiencies, obstetric complications, early stress, infections, etc.
The intestinal microbiota, a new suspect
For several years, researchers have been examining our intestinal microbiota —the billions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in our intestines—as a possible contributor to neuropsychiatric disorders. When an imbalance (dysbiosis) sets in, it can alter the permeability of the digestive wall , allow unwanted molecules to filter through, and influence the brain via the gut-brain axis.
A team focused specifically on the fungal fraction of the microbiota (yeasts and microscopic fungi). The goal: to see if "mycobiota-dysbiosis" increases the risk of ADHD in children.
The study in brief
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Participants: 70 children (35 with ADHD, 35 controls).
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Analyses: yeast sequencing in stool + intestinal permeability test.
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Major results:
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Significantly different fungal composition in ADHD children.
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Candida albicans is particularly abundant in this group.
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This over-representation correlated with a more “permeable” intestinal barrier.
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Conclusion: Fungal dysbiosis could promote the passage of pro-inflammatory molecules into the bloodstream, alter neurodevelopment and increase susceptibility to ADHD.
Why is this important?
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Modifiable factor : unlike genes, the microbiota evolves; diet, probiotics, prebiotics or targeted antifungals could in theory rebalance the flora.
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Early detection : a simple digestive test could, tomorrow, identify children at risk before symptoms appear.
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Integrative approach : combining behavioral management, nutritional monitoring and microbiota support would offer a more comprehensive strategy.
In practice, what can be done now?
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Take care of your plate : plant variety, fiber, omega-3 (oily fish, nuts) and limit refined sugars which feed Candida.
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Antibiotic vigilance : antibiotics unbalance the flora; only use them when really necessary.
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Calming lifestyle : Regular sleep and physical activity, both beneficial for both the gut and the brain.
To remember
ADHD is a complex disorder where genes and environment intersect. The intestinal microbiota , and in particular its fungal component, appears to be a new piece of the puzzle: understanding its impact opens up new avenues for prevention and support for affected children.
