UPDATED NOVEMBER 2024

Navigating the challenges of ADHD in children can often lead parents on a quest for natural remedies that support brain health and alleviate symptoms. 

Among these natural strategies, coconut oil has garnered attention for its potential benefits for those with ADHD. Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their brain-boosting properties, coconut oil is being increasingly recognized as a supportive dietary addition for those dealing with ADHD. 

This interest in coconut oil as a natural approach stems from its unique composition, which may help enhance cognitive function and improve overall brain health. As more parents seek effective and natural strategies to support their children, coconut oil for ADHD presents an intriguing option worth exploring.

How Coconut Oil Supports Brain Development

Coconut oil has been used for centuries as a nourishing agent, whether it’s used on skin, hair, or in food. It is known as the elixir of life in some parts of the world. But many people are still unaware that coconut oil can be beneficial for brain development too. 

The brain is hungry for healthy dietary fats. Some people argue that coconut oil increases your cholesterol, but in reality, cholesterol is good for children’s brain development!

Coconut oil’s unique composition offers significant benefits for cognitive function. It is rich in MCTs, (medium-chain triglycerides), which are metabolized in the liver to produce ketones—a highly efficient energy source that can readily cross the blood-brain barrier and fuel neurons. This robust energy source can enhance your child’s brain functionality and mitigate symptoms of ADHD.  Brain cells rely mostly on glucose for energy, and if your child’s body runs out of glucose, coconut oil will ensure that it has a back-up plan. Your child’s metabolism would convert MCTs into ketones, which act as extra fuel to supply energy to the brain.

Studies have demonstrated that MCT supplementation, often derived from coconut oil, may improve cognitive performance in individuals with mild cognitive impairments by providing this alternative fuel source to the brain, thereby enhancing memory and mental clarity.

MCTs in coconut oil are also linked to neuroprotective properties because of their potential to reduce oxidative stress. One study, for example, highlighted that the fatty acids in coconut oil, particularly lauric acid, may prevent amyloid-beta plaque buildup, thus slowing neuronal damage. This antioxidant effect also supports cellular health and reduces inflammation, which may contribute positively to overall brain function.³

There is also evidence suggesting that ketones produced from MCTs may enhance neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to adapt and reorganize itself more effectively. This can be particularly beneficial for supporting memory, focus, and learning. 

A study published in the Journal of Neurobiology of Aging showed that older adults experienced immediate cognitive improvements with MCT consumption, suggesting a positive impact on memory and cognitive flexibility, with potential applications for supporting attention and learning functions in children with ADHD as well. ⁴

These findings suggest that while more research is needed, coconut oil holds promise as a dietary addition for cognitive support for kids with ADHD.

Additional Benefits of Coconut Oil for Kids with ADHD

Along with the potential benefits mentioned above, coconut oil is also thought to have a soothing effect on the brain. For children with ADHD, who often experience high levels of anxiety and stress, coconut oil can contribute to a calmer mental state, making it easier to manage daily stressors and anxiety.

Another potential benefit is a reduction in brain fog. For kids with ADHD, brain fog can be a frequent and frustrating barrier to focusing on tasks at hand. Coconut oil’s ability to stabilize blood sugar and provide steady energy to the brain can help minimize brain fog, thereby enhancing focus and concentration. 

Incorporating coconut oil into your child’s diet could be a valuable part of a broader approach to managing ADHD naturally. It supports brain health in ways that can lead to noticeable improvements in daily cognitive functions. 

Coconut Oil in Your Child’s Diet: Easy Ways to Incorporate It

Now, maybe you’re reading this and thinking, “Great! I’d love to incorporate coconut oil into my ADHD child’s diet, but HOW?” 

Great question, and the truth is, adding coconut oil to your child’s diet can be simple and enjoyable. That’s because coconut oil is very versatile and has a mild flavor that pairs well with numerous dishes. 

Here are some kid-friendly ways to ensure that your little ones benefit from this powerful superfood:

Cooking with Coconut Oil: 

Replace traditional cooking oils with coconut oil when preparing family favorites like stir-fries or scrambled eggs. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for sautéing vegetables or meats, and it adds a subtle sweetness that can enhance the overall flavor of meals.

Baked Goods: 

Add a healthy twist to baked treats by substituting butter with coconut oil. This swap not only infuses moisture into cakes, muffins, and cookies but also contributes a light, tropical flavor that can make snacks extra tasty!

Smoothies: 

Boost your morning routine by blending a tablespoon of coconut oil into smoothies. Try a delicious strawberry coconut oil smoothie, combining fresh strawberries, a banana, a bit of honey, and coconut oil. This not only enriches the smoothie with a creamy texture but also provides an energy-lifting start to the day.

Pairing with Omega-3-Rich Foods: 

Enhance the nutritional value of meals by drizzling coconut oil over dishes that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as tuna or salmon salads. The combination of omega-3s and medium-chain triglycerides from coconut oil can synergize to support brain health, which is especially important for children dealing with ADHD.

By integrating coconut oil into everyday meals through these simple methods, you can enrich your child’s diet while promoting optimal brain function. 

These coconut oil recipes for ADHD are beneficial AND enjoyable, making them a perfect addition to a balanced ADHD diet.

Success Stories: Coconut Oil’s Impact on ADHD Symptoms

Many parents have witnessed improvements in their children’s symptoms after incorporating this natural oil into their diets. I have seen it working amazingly in my own son with ADHD. 

I often couple it up with fish, mostly tuna and salmon, to give him a boost of omega-3 as well. I can vouch for the taste that it brings to my family’s meals.  We all love the smell of fried fish as it sizzles in coconut oil, and my boys ask me for it at least a few times every week.  

I saw dramatic improvements in my son’s ADHD symptoms within a week of sticking to this dynamic ADHD meal plan.

Here are a few of the potential benefits of using coconut oil for managing ADHD symptoms:

Improved Concentration: One parent shared that their child, previously struggling to stay focused during homework sessions, exhibited a noticeable increase in concentration after they started including a tablespoon of coconut oil in their breakfast smoothie. The parent noted fewer distractions and a better ability to complete tasks without constant supervision.

Reduced Hyperactivity: Another common observation is a reduction in hyperactive behaviors. A mother recounted how her son, who used to be incessantly on the move and often found it hard to sit still, began to show more calmness and was able to engage in quiet activities like reading, following a daily regimen of coconut oil in his meals.

Enhanced Cognitive Function and Reduced Brain Fog: Several parents have reported that coconut oil has helped clear the “brain fog” that often clouds the minds of children with ADHD. The enhanced clarity and improved cognitive function make it easier for these children to process information and engage more effectively in both academic and social settings.

How Much Coconut Oil Should You Give Your Child?

You might be wondering now…”How much coconut oil is the right amount for my child?”

When considering how much coconut oil to use for ADHD, it’s important to start with a moderate amount to gauge how your child responds to this dietary addition.

For children, a safe starting point is typically 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil daily. This amount can be adjusted based on the child’s age, dietary needs, and how well they tolerate the oil. 

For younger children, you might start with smaller amounts, such as a teaspoon of coconut oil added to oatmeal or yogurt. 

Additionally, please keep in mind that genetics can play a role in this, as there are some genes that affect how the body responds to saturated fats. 

Introduce coconut oil gradually into your child’s diet to monitor any changes or improvements in ADHD symptoms. Observing how your child reacts over a few weeks will help in understanding whether coconut oil is beneficial for them and if the dosage needs adjustment.

One thing to keep in mind is that coconut oil alone isn’t going to be a be-all-end-all solution. Instead, use it as part of a comprehensive approach to managing ADHD naturally. 

Always consult with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist when making significant changes to your child’s diet, especially concerning supplementation and dosage. 

Why Coconut Oil is Worth Trying for ADHD

Coconut oil offers a simple, natural addition to the dietary management of ADHD that could yield significant benefits. With its unique composition that supports brain function and enhances focus, it stands out as more than just a health trend. 

For parents seeking gentle yet effective ways to alleviate some of the challenges associated with ADHD, incorporating coconut oil could be a worthwhile experiment. It’s a low-risk intervention that aligns with a whole-foods approach, promising not only to boost cognitive functions but also to improve overall vitality. 

If you’re curious about the potential benefits for your child, consider trying a small amount of coconut oil daily and observe any changes in concentration, mood, and cognitive clarity. Remember, small changes can often lead to significant improvements.

My favorite brand is Nutiva Coconut Oil in the 1 Gallon tub here>> or a 15 oz jar here>>.