Adult ADHD from a functional medicine perspective

ADHD in adults is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed. While many people associate ADHD with hyperactivity in children, adults typically experience it differently — as chronic distractibility, forgetfulness, emotional overwhelm, and difficulty staying organised or focused. From a functional medicine perspective, ADHD can be exacerbated by imbalances in the body that can affect the brain.

ADHD medication can be extremely effective. However, it doesn’t always suit everyone. At Healixa Health, we take a root-cause, whole-person approach to ADHD, helping you explore ways to support brain your brain health naturally and effectively.

Looking beneath the surface

ADHD symptoms in adults can be influenced by a range of interconnected factors, including:

Dark gray background with white text reading "Gut health and microbiome imbalances."
"Nutrient deficiencies" text on dark background
Text "Blood sugar dysregulation and insulin resistance" on a dark background.
Text reading 'Chronic inflammation and food sensitivities' on a dark background.
"Environmental toxins" text on dark background
Text reading "Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress" on a dark background.
"Poor sleep and circadian rhythm disruption" text on dark background

Our processes

Illustration of a person drawing a line connecting three gears with symbols: magnifying glass, light bulb, and growth chart, next to a potted plant.

Rather than focusing only on managing symptoms with medication, we work to identify and address the underlying contributors to improve focus, energy, mood, and emotional regulation.

  • To create a personalised treatment plan, we may use advanced testing to uncover root causes. These may include:

    ◦ Organic Acids Test (OAT) – for insights into neurotransmitter metabolism, mitochondrial function, nutrient status, and detox pathways

    ◦ Comprehensive Stool Testing (e.g. GI360) – to assess gut health, dysbiosis, inflammation, and digestive function

    ◦ Micronutrient Testing – to evaluate levels of magnesium, zinc, iron, B vitamins, and omega-3s

    ◦ Heavy Metal and Toxin Screening – to detect hidden toxic burdens affecting brain health

    ◦ Food Sensitivity Testing – to identify delayed immune responses linked to inflammation and cognitive symptoms

    ◦ Adrenal Stress and Cortisol Testing – to assess the impact of chronic stress and regulate energy and focus

  • Once we’ve explored your story, reviewed your timeline and matrix, and completed relevant investigations, we build a personalised ADHD support plan that may include:

    ◦ A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet to support brain and gut health

    ◦ Targeted supplements to support neurotransmitter balance and reduce inflammation

    ◦ Blood sugar and energy regulation strategies

    ◦ Sleep and circadian rhythm support

    ◦ Nervous system regulation techniques (e.g. breathwork, mindfulness tools)

    ◦ Lifestyle and mindset strategies to improve focus, motivation, and organisation

    Each testing plan is tailored to your individual history and presentation.

A collaborative, root-cause approach

If you want to explore a deeper, more integrative approach to your health, we’re here to support you. Healing takes time — but with the right plan, structure, and support, you can feel more focused, calm, and in control of your life.

Ready to explore a personalised approach to ADHD?