Adhd meds and eating

@independentBalsam2456 Yep I have the same thing but with a different brand of medication. I've found that it's easier for me to graze throughout the day than have three separate 'big meals' and I try to have nutritious snacks on hand. Same with drinking water - if I switch tasks, I have to eat and drink something. It isn't a perfect solution, but it might be better than nothing. Good luck!!

I used an app for a while. With alarms for every meal. Also I had a meal plan with limited options for every meal. Makes the choices easier. Also always have a safe food. Like when eating is really hard i need something with mild flavour and the right texture. Also eanything is bettet than not eating.

Does this mean my problem is fixed. No. After a while I the alarms dont work. I eitjer stop hearing them or turn them of thinking i have gotten a good routine and dont need them anymore. Bit when I notice I am exhausted all the time and find put it is because i got in to the habbit of only eating once or twice a day again, then I know what to do.

Also I eat a heavy breakfast with my meds. Just so I habe energy if the meds make me nauseous after.

Hope this helps.

I agree with another commenter, I’m a grazer all day and prefer little snacks all day long. I’m basically always eating but very slowly and while distracted by my tasks. I also supplement with Boost Plus Protein drinks. They’re delicious to me and packed full of nutrients that prevent me from ever feeling “light headed” or “fatigued” more than usual.

When my adhd gets seems to flare up and I notice I’m leaning to heavily on protein drinks, I ask myself “what sounds absolutely delicious” and I go right then, to get that food. Sometimes that food “doesn’t hit the spot” and I end up wasting purchased food, but I don’t nag myself about it. I just toss it ask myself “alright NOW what am I hungry for” and I go get it, until suddenly I can’t stop eating whatever I’ve acquired for myself! Maybe these are just my safe foods in rotation until I find the safe food I’ve been particularly craving haha.

Something perhaps counterproductive I do is sip on soda when I’m feeling extra hungry but not able to “force myself” to eat. As in, my stomach grumbles in hunger but my brain just isn’t catching on to the hunger. I’m hypoglycemic and I noticed when my blood sugar drops too low, I get indecisive, sometimes shaky, irritable, and even nauseous sometimes. It also helps me to feel hungry for whatever reason. I try to keep that all at bay with absolutely no more than a max of a one can or 12 oz bottle of soda day, cause I can easily get a little too attached to soda. 🥹

Have you considered reminders? Like visually with expo markers on bathroom mirrors, rearview mirror or even on the refrigerator (yes i promise it’ll wash off!!) or post it notes. Among with alarms or a smart watch to vibrate to remind you!

There’s also the idea of getting an accountability buddy to help each other!

This happened to me the first month of it and I lost almost 25 lbs. I started buying high calorie protein shakes to drink in morning and at night which helped me. I also use super greens to get my nutrients I need. Hope this may help.

@independentBalsam2456

Managing medication side effects, such as reduced appetite commonly experienced with ADHD medications like Elvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and Wellbutrin (bupropion), requires a strategic approach to ensure your physical health supports your cognitive and psychological well-being. Here are several professional strategies to help you remember to eat:

1. Scheduled Meal Times:

   • Example: Set alarms on your smartphone or computer to go off at 8:00 AM for breakfast, 12:00 PM for lunch, and 6:00 PM for dinner. Label each alarm with a reminder, such as "Time to nourish your body!" to prompt positive action.

2. Nutritional Planning:

   • Example: Dedicate time each week to meal planning. Create a menu that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods you enjoy. Prepare meals in advance, perhaps during a weekend meal prep session, so you have easy-to-eat options even when you're not feeling hungry.

3. Small, Frequent Meals:

   • Example: Pack small, nutritious snacks that are high in protein and healthy fats, such as nuts, cheese, or yogurt. Keep these snacks in places you frequent throughout the day, like your workspace or bag, making it easy to eat without needing to interrupt your flow.

4. Hydration and Appetite:

   • Example: Carry a water bottle with you and set a goal to refill it a certain number of times per day. Experiment with adding fruits to your water for flavor or making smoothies with a blend of fruits, vegetables, and protein powder to drink throughout the day.

5. Engagement and Enjoyment:

   • Example: Make mealtime more enjoyable by planning to eat one meal a day with a friend or family member. Alternatively, treat yourself to a meal from your favorite restaurant once a week as a reminder that food can be both nourishing and enjoyable.

6. Health Monitoring:

   • Example: Use a nutritional tracking app to log your daily food intake. Set specific goals for calories, protein, and other nutrients. Review your progress weekly to adjust as needed, ensuring you're meeting your body's needs.

7. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals:

   • Example: Schedule a regular check-up with your healthcare provider to discuss your medication's effects, including appetite changes. Be specific about your concerns and ask for advice or alternatives that might lessen the side effects. Consider asking for a referral to a dietitian who can provide personalized advice.

8. Mindfulness Practices:

   • Example: Before you start your workday, take five minutes to do a quick mindfulness exercise. Focus on your breath, then gradually shift your attention to your body, noting any sensations or needs, such as hunger. This practice can help you remain attuned to your body's needs, even when your appetite is diminished.
   I hope this help! STAY STRONG AND AMAZING!!