To gain weight, you will need to eat more calories than your body burns every day through daily activity and daily exercise. It’s important that you gain weight safely by committing to a balanced diet with higher calorie meals every day. Your nutritionist can help you develop a meal plan so you are eating healthy, nutrient rich meals that will allow you to gain weight and maintain a healthy weight. [5] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

Foods that are associated with quick weight gain, including sugary foods and drinks like soda, candy, cookies, pastries, etc. , may also exacerbate symptoms of ADHD, especially hyperactivity. [7] X Research source

Your body cannot produce essential fatty acids on its own, so you need to add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. This includes having foods like salmon, tuna, and other cold-water fish. Omega-6 fatty acids can be consumed via vegetable oils. Children with ADHD should have 12 ounces (per two meals) a week of fish and shellfish that are low in mercury, for example, shrimp, canned light tuna, pollack, salmon, cooked in unsaturated vegetable based fats.

Work with your dietician or nutritionist to ensure you are eating lots of fruits and vegetables, particularly leafy green vegetables like spinach, as well as dairy and grains like brown rice and wholegrain bread. [14] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source The average woman needs about 4. 0–7. 0 mg of zinc a day, and the average man needs 5. 5–9. 5mg of zinc a day. As well, men need 300mg of magnesium a day and women need 270mg of magnesium a day. [15] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

Up keeping a mild to moderate workout routine, coupled with a high daily calorie intake, will allow you to gain weight in a healthy way.

Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, meaning there is no standard for the purity of the ingredients or their safety. Your pharmacist or dietician can recommend a reputable brand and give you advice on what is an appropriate dose for you to take. [18] X Research source

Cyproheptadine has been shown in studies to increase appetite and improve sleep patterns while on ADHD medication. [20] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source However, always talk to your doctor before taking any other medications in conjunction with your ADHD medication.

For children who are taking ADHD medication, there is a concern that using antidepressants at such a young age can lead to severe mood swings and suicidal thoughts. Your doctor can outline all the possible risks of taking an antidepressant along with your ADHD medication.

Never stop taking medication without speaking with your doctor first.