Exclusive Breastfeeding Could Be Linked to Lower ADHD Symptoms in Children: Study

by AHT Desk

Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life may be associated with a lower risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in children, according to a study conducted by researchers at Norway's University of Bergen.

The findings, published in the journal Biological Psychiatry, are based on data from more than 37,600 families enrolled in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study. Researchers tracked infant feeding practices and later assessed children for ADHD-related symptoms at ages three, five, and eight years. The study found that children who were exclusively breastfed for longer periods—up to six months at least—tended to exhibit fewer ADHD symptoms than those who were breastfed for shorter durations. This was observed in both boys and girls, with the strongest effects recorded at ages three and five, although the benefit appeared to persist, to a lesser extent, at age eight.

Researchers suggest that breast milk may support healthy brain development because it contains essential nutrients such as long-chain fatty acids, amino acids, immune-protective antibodies and beneficial bacteria that contribute to neurological and immune system development. These biological components have long been considered important for early childhood growth and cognitive development.

Importantly, the investigators accounted for several factors that could influence the results, including family background, socioeconomic status and inherited genetic risk for ADHD. They also compared siblings within the same families to reduce the impact of shared environmental influences. Even after these adjustments, the association between longer exclusive breastfeeding and fewer ADHD symptoms remained moderate but statistically significant.

However, the researchers cautioned that the study does not prove breastfeeding directly prevents ADHD. Because it is an observational study, it can only identify an association rather than establish a cause-and-effect relationship. Other biological, environmental, and social factors may also contribute to a child's risk of developing ADHD.

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders worldwide and is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that can interfere with learning, behaviour and daily functioning. While symptoms often emerge during childhood, they can continue into adolescence and adulthood. Genetics is considered the strongest risk factor, but scientists increasingly recognise that prenatal and early-life environmental factors may also influence brain development.

The latest findings add to a growing body of research exploring how early nutrition may shape long-term neurological health. Previous studies have also reported links between longer breastfeeding duration and improved cognitive development. However, experts note that many factors—including maternal health, education, family environment and access to healthcare—can influence these outcomes.

Global health organisations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods for up to two years or beyond. These recommendations are based on well-established benefits, including reduced risk of infections, improved nutrition, and support for healthy growth and development.

Researchers say further studies, particularly those investigating the biological mechanisms behind the observed association, are needed before concluding that breastfeeding itself reduces the risk of ADHD. Nevertheless, the study highlights another potential long-term benefit of exclusive breastfeeding and underscores the importance of providing families with adequate support to meet recommended breastfeeding practices.