Supplements

Probiotics reduce hyperactivity and improve academic performance in adults with ADHD

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

Last updated: Jul 7, 2026•1 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score42/100
Human RCT★★☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
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 · 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:

PubMed: 39500949DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-73874-y

Mechanism Graph

Probiotics modulate gut microbiota composition
↓
Gut-brain axis influences neuroendocrine and immune pathways
↓
Reduced inflammation and improved HPA-axis regulation
↓
Result: Decreased hyperactivity and improved cognitive/academic outcomes

Limitations

  • ⚠Specific probiotic strains and doses not detailed in abstract
  • ⚠Single study with relatively short duration (3 months) and limited generalizability to non-college populations
  • ⚠Subjective measures (questionnaires) may introduce bias

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of probiotic was used in this study?▼

The study used a multi-strain probiotic supplement, but the specific strains and doses are not mentioned in the abstract.

How long did participants take the probiotic?▼

Participants took the probiotic or placebo daily for three months.

Did the probiotic affect all ADHD symptoms equally?▼

The probiotic significantly decreased hyperactivity, but the abstract does not report significant effects on inattention or impulsivity.

Was there any relationship between cortisol levels and ADHD symptoms?▼

Yes, there was a negative correlation between fingernail cortisol concentrations (FCC) and symptoms of attention and impulsivity.

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.