Supplements

Multi-strain probiotics reduce hyperactivity and improve academic performance in adults with ADHD

A double-blind RCT found that daily multi-strain probiotic supplementation for three months significantly decreased hyperactivity, improved gastrointestinal symptoms, and enhanced academic performance in college students with ADHD. Younger participants showed greater overall benefits, and higher academic grades were associated with lower hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Last updated: Jul 7, 2026โ€ข1 RCTsโ€ข๐Ÿ“– Read as article โ†’

Evidence Score

Evidence Score44/100
Human RCTโ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†
Meta-analysisโ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†
Mechanismโ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†
Safetyโ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†โ˜†
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Exploring the impact of probiotics on adult ADHD management through a double-blind RCT.

observational

Levy Schwartz M, Magzal F, Yehuda I, Tamir S ยท Scientific reports (2024)

Participants: N/A
Duration: 3 months
Intervention: Multi-strain probiotic supplement daily for three months
Outcome: Hyperactivity (MOXO test), academic performance (grades), gastrointestinal symptoms, fingernail cortisol concentrations (FCC), attention and impulsivity symptoms
Effect Size: N/A
Population: College students with ADHD

Result:

Mechanism Graph

Probiotics modulate gut microbiota composition
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Gut-brain axis signaling influences neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter production
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Reduced HPA-axis activity (indicated by FCC correlation with symptoms)
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Result: Decreased hyperactivity and improved academic performance

Limitations

  • โš Abstract does not specify the exact probiotic strains or dosage used
  • โš Single study with relatively short duration (3 months) and specific population (college students) limits generalizability

Products

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References

  1. 1.Levy Schwartz M, Magzal F, Yehuda I, Tamir S. "Exploring the impact of probiotics on adult ADHD management through a double-blind RCT.." Scientific reports, 2024. PMID: 39500949 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-73874-y
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.