You know how much I love uncovering practical, research-backed ways to support our children’s health. This week, I came across a study that really stood out, and I think you’ll find it fascinating, too. It explored how probiotics could play a role in helping with ADHD symptoms. The results were both exciting and hopeful, and I couldn’t wait to share them with you.

This wasn’t just about improving digestion, although that’s always a good thing. The study focused on how probiotics could reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and even boost academic performance. 

The participants, young adults with ADHD aged 19 to 30, took a specific probiotic blend every day for three months. By the end of the study, they experienced significant improvements. Hyperactivity decreased, their focus improved, their grades went up, and they even reported fewer digestive issues like bloating and irregularity.

While conventional medicine often focuses on managing surface-level symptoms, in functional medicine, we dig deeper. This research is a perfect example of why that matters. By addressing the gut, we’re not just supporting digestion - we’re creating a ripple effect that can transform behaviour, mood, and overall well-being.

In this newsletter, I will break down exactly what was taken in the study and how we can mimic this approach. Whether you’re curious about probiotics or actively looking for ways to support your child’s focus and mood, this is a great place to start. Let’s dig into the details together.

Stella Chadwick, BSc (Hons) mBANT CNHC

Founder, Functional Medicine Practitioner & Registered Nutritional Therapist

What exactly did they take?

In the study, participants were given a total of 40 billion CFUs (colony-forming units, or live bacteria) every day. This probiotic formula included five carefully selected strains, each chosen for its unique benefits to the gut and brain:

• Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell-52: Known for its ability to reduce stress hormones like cortisol and support mood regulation.

• Bifidobacterium longum Rosell-175: Helps calm inflammation and strengthens communication between the gut and brain.

• Enterococcus faecium Rosell-26: Plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier and reducing gut-related inflammation.

• Bacillus subtilis Rosell-179: Promotes microbial diversity and helps with the production of neurotransmitters.

• Bifidobacterium lactis HN019: Supports regular digestion and overall gut health.

To meet the daily 40 billion CFU dose, participants took two capsules of the probiotic blend twice a day for three months.

How can you recreate this?

The exact probiotic formula used in the study isn’t commercially available, but you can come very close with a combination of three high-quality products. If you’re interested in trying this here’s what you’ll need: 

You can use code L8FQQL to access these products and get a 10% discount.

• Bio.Me IB+ by Invivo Healthcare, which contains Enterococcus faecium Rosell-26 and Bacillus subtilis Rosell-179. Take two capsules twice a day.

• Florassist Mood Improve by Life Extension, which includes Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell-52 and Bifidobacterium longum Rosell-175. Take two capsules twice a day.

• Bactiol Regular by Metagenics, which provides Bifidobacterium lactis HN019. Take two capsules twice a day.

This combination replicates the study’s dosage and covers all five strains. By taking these products together, we can closely mimic the intervention used in the research.

The strains used in the study - Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell-52, Bifidobacterium longum Rosell-175, Enterococcus faecium Rosell-26, Bacillus subtilis Rosell-179, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 - are generally considered safe and appropriate for children. However, it’s always important to adjust the dose for age and weight, as well as consult with a practitioner before introducing new supplements, particularly for children under 7 or those with specific health concerns.

Always discuss the addition of new supplements with your practitioner or medical doctor.

Why this study matters

This research gives us another valuable tool to help children with ADHD in a way that feels natural, accessible, and safe. What makes this approach so exciting is that it doesn’t just target symptoms; it addresses one of the root causes by supporting the gut. The improvements in focus, behaviour, and gut health show just how interconnected the body and brain truly are.

If this resonates with you, or if you’re curious about trying it, I’d love to hear how it works for your family. Research like this reminds us that small, thoughtful changes can lead to meaningful progress.

Discover more about our innovative strategies and book a free chat with us to see how we can help.

Meet our practitioners
We are a unique clinic in that many of our practitioners have a child with special needs, and they all have different passions and expertise. Please head to our website to meet Stella, Coriander, Jo, Sarah, Haley, Mémé, Aira, and Emma and get in touch if you'd like to know how to work with us.