Indian meal plan for adhd
Support focus and well-being with the Indian Meal Plan for ADHD. This plan includes nutritious Indian meals tailored to help manage ADHD symptoms. Enjoy meals that are both delicious and beneficial for your mind and body.
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Meal plan grocery list
- Spinach
- Salmon
- Chicken breast
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
- Quinoa
- Brown rice
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Yogurt
- Paneer
- Coconut milk
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Cilantro
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Sweet potatoes
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Apples
- Oranges
- Ghee
- Olive oil
- Cumin seeds
- Mustard seeds
- Fenugreek seeds
- Cinnamon
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on June 3, 2024.
- Updated on Oct. 1, 2024.
Meal plan overview
Support focus and nutrition with the Indian Meal Plan for ADHD. This plan features meals rich in nutrients that support brain health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Enjoy Indian recipes designed to help improve concentration and overall well-being.
Each day provides balanced meal ideas that can help manage ADHD symptoms. This plan makes it simple to prepare meals that support cognitive health and keep you energized throughout the day.
Foods to eat
- Protein-Rich Foods: Include lean meats like chicken and fish, legumes such as lentils and chickpeas, and nuts to enhance brain function and manage energy levels throughout the day.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Opt for whole grains like oats, whole wheat, and brown rice which provide steady energy and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3s such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish like salmon to support brain health.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Consume a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to get a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals, which are crucial for cognitive function and overall health.
- Consistent Meal Times: Eat regular meals and snacks to keep blood sugar levels stable, which can help reduce symptoms of ADHD.
✅ Tip
Include omega-3 rich foods like flaxseeds and walnuts in your diet to support brain health and function.
Foods not to eat
- High Sugar Foods: Avoid sugary snacks, cereals, and desserts that can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to hyperactivity and mood swings.
- Artificial Additives: Stay away from foods containing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which some studies suggest may exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
- Simple Carbohydrates: Limit foods like white bread and other refined grains which can lead to quick energy spikes and crashes.
Main benefits
The Indian meal plan for adhd emphasizes nutrient-dense foods that support brain health and focus. This plan includes omega-3 rich foods like flaxseeds and walnuts, which are essential for cognitive function. Whole grains and legumes provide steady energy and help maintain concentration throughout the day. The use of spices like turmeric and saffron can have calming effects and support mood regulation. Additionally, avoiding processed foods and artificial additives is key to minimizing potential triggers for ADHD symptoms.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
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Food alternatives
To support focus and energy with a balanced Indian diet, try these substitutions:
- For added omega-3s, flaxseeds can replace pumpkin seeds in snacks and salads.
- To boost protein, Greek yogurt can replace coconut milk in curries and smoothies.
- For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice can replace brown rice in meals.
- To enhance focus, turmeric tea can replace regular chai in your daily routine.
- For a nutrient-dense snack, roasted nuts with spices can replace plain nuts in between meals.
How to budget on this meal plan
For an Indian meal plan tailored to ADHD, focusing on omega-3 rich foods like flaxseeds and walnuts can support brain health and are relatively inexpensive when bought in bulk. Incorporating plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables can provide essential nutrients and are cost-effective when purchased seasonally. Preparing simple, balanced meals like dal with mixed vegetables can help maintain steady energy levels and focus. Using herbs and spices like turmeric and ginger can enhance cognitive function naturally and affordably. Avoiding processed foods and making snacks at home, such as roasted chickpeas, can keep your diet nutritious and budget-friendly.
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Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Here are some snacks to support ADHD management:
- Apple slices with almond butter
- Carrot sticks with hummus
- Greek yogurt with berries
- Mixed nuts and seeds
- Whole grain crackers with cheese
- Fruit smoothies with spinach and berries
- Air-popped popcorn with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For managing ADHD, drink options include water infused with lemon or cucumber, green tea for its calming effects, and smoothies made with fruits and vegetables for extra nutrients. Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can aid relaxation and focus, while unsweetened almond or soy milk provides a healthy alternative to dairy. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine.
How to get even more nutrients?
For managing ADHD, focus on nutrient-rich foods that support brain health. Opt for lean proteins like chicken, fish, or plant-based options such as tofu or lentils, seasoned with herbs and spices. Include a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and spinach for essential vitamins and minerals. Add whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice for fiber and sustained energy. Finish with a serving of fresh fruit or a mixed fruit salad to incorporate natural sweetness and additional nutrients. This approach ensures balanced nutrition that supports cognitive function.
Meal plan suggestions
Indian Meal Plan for ADHD
Day 1
- Breakfast: Quinoa and spinach porridge topped with cinnamon and almonds
- Lunch: Grilled salmon with turmeric and ginger, served with brown rice and a tomato-cucumber salad
- Dinner: Chicken breast marinated in yogurt and garam masala, served with sautéed bell peppers and carrots
- Snack: Apple and walnut salad with a hint of cinnamon
Day 2
- Breakfast: Banana and blueberry smoothie with coconut milk and a spoonful of pumpkin seeds
- Lunch: Lentil curry with tomatoes, cilantro, and cumin seeds served with quinoa
- Dinner: Paneer tikka with mixed bell peppers and sweet potatoes
- Snack: Mango slices sprinkled with lime juice and dusted with chili powder
Day 3
- Breakfast: Carrot and ginger juice with a side of yogurt mixed with chopped almonds
- Lunch: Chickpea salad with cucumbers, carrots, cilantro, and a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice
- Dinner: Baked chicken with fenugreek and mustard seeds, served with steamed brown rice
- Snack: Orange segments with a sprinkle of cinnamon
Day 4
- Breakfast: Paneer scramble with turmeric, garlic, and spinach
- Lunch: Grilled sweet potato and chickpea patties served with a yogurt dip
- Dinner: Salmon curry with coconut milk and cilantro, served over quinoa
- Snack: Handful of pumpkin seeds and walnuts
Day 5
- Breakfast: Smoothie bowl with blended spinach, banana, coconut milk, topped with sliced apples and pumpkin seeds
- Lunch: Lentil soup with carrots, tomatoes, and a dash of olive oil
- Dinner: Stir-fried chicken with bell peppers, ginger, and garlic, served with brown rice
- Snack: Yogurt with diced mango and a sprinkle of walnuts
Day 6
- Breakfast: Quinoa oatmeal cooked with almond milk, topped with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Lunch: Paneer and pea curry with cumin seeds, served with quinoa
- Dinner: Garlic and cilantro marinated chicken skewers, served with sautéed spinach and cucumbers
- Snack: Sliced cucumbers and carrots with a dip of blended yogurt and cilantro
Day 7
- Breakfast: Mango and yogurt parfait with layers of crushed almonds
- Lunch: Chickpea and sweet potato curry with coconut milk and fenugreek seeds
- Dinner: Grilled salmon with a side of mixed quinoa and steamed carrots
- Snack: Blueberries and slices of orange with a dollop of yogurt
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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.