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ADHD-Friendly Summer Diet Plan: Stay Focused and Fit

A summer diet plan for ADHD focuses on consistency and nutrient-rich foods that can help manage energy levels and focus. Incorporating protein into each meal can stabilize blood sugar, which is beneficial for attention spans. Plus, using summer fruits and veggies adds natural sweetness and variety to every dish.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Spinach
  • Blueberries
  • Salmon
  • Quinoa
  • Avocado
  • Chicken breast
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Greek yogurt
  • Strawberries
  • Broccoli
  • Brown rice

  • Almonds
  • Tuna
  • Bell peppers
  • Eggs
  • Oranges
  • Cottage cheese
  • Kale
  • Turkey breast
  • Black beans
  • Tomatoes
  • Lentils

  • Apples
  • Lean beef
  • Asparagus
  • Bananas
  • Cauliflower
  • Pineapple
  • Walnuts
  • Pork tenderloin
  • Mangoes

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on May 13, 2024.
• Updated on August 13, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The summer diet plan for ADHD is designed to help manage ADHD symptoms with nutritional strategies that may enhance focus and reduce hyperactivity. This plan includes plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are all important for brain health. Snacks like nuts or yogurt can be particularly effective for sustaining energy levels and concentration throughout the day.

Meals are kept simple and engaging, with an emphasis on minimizing artificial additives and sugar. Whether it’s a smoothie for breakfast or grilled fish for dinner, each meal is planned to be as enjoyable as it is healthful, supporting overall wellness and cognitive function.

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Foods to eat

  • Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, and eggs help stabilize energy levels.
  • Omega-3-Rich Fish: Salmon, sardines, and mackerel support brain health.
  • Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, oats, and sweet potatoes provide steady energy.
  • Iron-Rich Foods: Spinach, beans, and red meat can boost focus.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: Berries, oranges, and leafy greens support brain function.
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(...) people who consume omega-3-rich foods on a regular basis remain mentally clearer and have a lower likelihood of developing cognitive deterioration than those who consume less of there healthy fats.

Lisa Mosconi, PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Artificial Dyes: Found in candies, fruit drinks, and some processed snacks.
  • Preservatives: Sodium benzoate and other preservatives may worsen symptoms.
  • High-Sugar Foods: Candy, cookies, and sugary drinks can trigger hyperactivity.
  • Trans Fats: Margarine, fried foods, and baked goods contain unhealthy fats.
  • Caffeine: Limit sodas and energy drinks that may increase hyperactivity.

Main benefits

With its omega-3-packed fatty fish and brain-boosting berries, the summer diet plan for ADHD supports focus and reduces hyperactivity. Fresh leafy greens and seeds supply essential vitamins and minerals like zinc and iron, key players in optimizing cognitive function. Plus, avoiding artificial additives in favor of clean, fresh foods minimizes behavioral disruptions.

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📊 71% of people think they could improve their eating habits (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

If you're sticking to an ADHD-friendly diet, focus on high-protein foods like eggs and Greek yogurt, which are often on sale in summer. Incorporate omega-3-rich foods like flaxseed and chia seeds; buy these in bulk to save money. Veggies like broccoli and carrots are usually reasonably priced and easy to snack on. Make your own trail mix with nuts and dried fruit to avoid the high costs of store-bought snacks.

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7-Day Meal Plan for Summer Diet Plan for ADHD

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries, strawberries, and walnuts
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, steamed broccoli, and bell peppers
  • Dinner: Salmon fillet with sweet potatoes and sautéed asparagus
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and tomatoes
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with avocado, kale, and bell peppers
  • Dinner: Turkey breast with roasted cauliflower and brown rice
  • Snack: Banana with Greek yogurt

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with pineapple, mangoes, and almonds
  • Lunch: Lean beef stir-fry with bell peppers and broccoli, served over quinoa
  • Dinner: Pork tenderloin with roasted sweet potatoes and kale salad
  • Snack: Orange slices with cottage cheese

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese with blueberries, strawberries, and walnuts
  • Lunch: Lentil salad with tomatoes, avocado, and spinach
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with roasted asparagus and brown rice
  • Snack: Mango with Greek yogurt

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with bananas, apples, and almonds
  • Lunch: Chicken breast with quinoa, roasted cauliflower, and bell peppers
  • Dinner: Tuna steak with sautéed spinach and sweet potatoes
  • Snack: Pineapple slices with walnuts

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with kale, tomatoes, and avocado
  • Lunch: Pork tenderloin with black beans, steamed broccoli, and brown rice
  • Dinner: Turkey breast with roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed asparagus
  • Snack: Apple slices with Greek yogurt

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese with pineapple, mangoes, and almonds
  • Lunch: Lean beef stir-fry with bell peppers and spinach, served over quinoa
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with sautéed kale and roasted cauliflower
  • Snack: Orange slices with Greek yogurt

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.