My ADD Diagnosis

I was well into adulthood when I was diagnosed with ADD. Two of my three kids have it too, so you could say we’re an easily distracted bunch. I tried the medication, but couldn’t stick with it—mostly because, well, I kept forgetting to take it. No, seriously I didn’t like how the meds made me feel. Sure it helped me focus and even reduced my anxiety at a time of my life that I needed it- but I just didn’t like how it made me feel.  Looking back, I can see the signs were always there. I was that kid in school who couldn’t stay seated, who was constantly being told to “stop talking” or “sit still.” (Spoiler alert: I still struggle with both.)

Managing My ADD

Over the years, I’ve learned to manage my ADD. I struggled with it before it was fully understood. And in college, I knew I was different from so many of my peers. The ADD brain isn’t a fan of multiple-choice tests, too many choices, and too many questions. We tend to second guess our answer or become paralyzed to make a decision. My ADD followed me through college and into the workforce. At least I knew that cubicle work and lab science weren’t for me.  Restaurant management, teaching and, yep, farming can be great professions for the ADD brain.

Farming for the win

Studies suggest that a significant percentage of entrepreneurs have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)—with estimates ranging from 20% to as high as 40%, compared to about 4-5% in the general adult population. People with ADD are often drawn to entrepreneurship because the traditional 9-to-5 structure can feel restrictive or unstimulating. Their natural traits—like high energy, risk tolerance, creativity, and a preference for novelty—align well with the fast-paced, dynamic environment of running a business.

Entrepreneurship offers the freedom to follow their interests, pivot quickly, and design workflows that suit their unique brain wiring.I had convinced myself I needed freedom in my life. Being overly scheduled was not for me. Well, it took decades to realize being scheduled, keeping to a calendar, and meal planning makes my life better.   Certainly having routines, schedules, and daily meditation, for me, is essential. And so is my whole foods diet based on clean protein and veggies.

 I’ve learned that food plays a powerful role in cognitive function, emotions, and behavior—especially for those of us with ADD. If you or someone in your family has ADD/ADHD, you probably recognize the struggle with focus, attention, and procrastination. You might notice that some days are harder than others, and you may chalk it up to stress or bad sleep. But what if what’s on your plate could be making your symptoms worse—or better?

Food Choice is Critical

I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that what I eat has a huge impact on my focus, energy, and mood. For those of us with ADD, the struggle with procrastination, brain fog, and emotional ups and downs can feel random. But often, it’s not just stress or poor sleep—it’s what’s on our plate. A diet full of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can make ADD symptoms worse, while whole, nutrient-dense foods (especially protein-rich ones) can do wonders for mental clarity and stability.

I’ll be honest—I’m no saint. I love pizza, sandwiches, ice cream, craft beer… especially Bonkey’s (if you know, you know). But I’ve had to accept that those indulgences take a toll. I’m sharper and more productive when I focus on whole foods, with at least 30g of protein per meal. Grass-fed beef, eggs, wild fish, nuts, seeds, and even green tea—help boost dopamine, which keeps motivation and focus steady. I keep my sugar intake low, saving the chocolate cake for birthdays (mine and others). Most nights, dessert is a square of dark chocolate—simple, satisfying, and brain-friendly.

Carbs? Veggies first. Local, organic, colorful vegetables are the best fuel. Fruit’s great too, but too much sugar can lead to crashes. Food really is medicine—and for those of us navigating ADD, it’s one of our most powerful tools.

Community support

But there’s something even more powerful than just eating well: eating well in community. It’s tough to cook homemade nutritious meals when your friends want to go out for cheeseburgers and pizza.  Surrounding yourself with people who value whole, real food makes it easier to stick with it. At Oak Spring Farm, our CSA.members aren’t just picking up fresh vegetables—they’re embracing a way of life that prioritizes food as medicine. We share recipes, ideas, and support to help each other eat in a way that fuels our bodies and minds.  So wherever you live look into joining a community of like-minded eaters. A CSA is a great place to start. 

Whole Food Diet High in Protein

I truly believe that eating farm-fresh, nutrient-dense foods has helped me manage my ADD and given my kids a better foundation for focus and energy. It’s not about perfection; it’s about making small, intentional choices that add up over time. So if you’ve ever felt like your brain is in a fog or your energy is on a rollercoaster, take a look at your plate.

Whole foods aren’t just good for your body—they’re essential for your brain. And when we eat well together, we thrive together. So join that CSA. Get in a community of people who eat well to live well. Your mind and body will thank you.

Special thanks to Amen Clinics for their research and insights on the connection between diet and ADD/ADHD.

This article inspired my blog: Foods That Help With ADD: The Surprising Role Diet Plays in Symptoms 

Amen Clinics

November 20, 2024

At the end of the day I have to ask myself who am I?  My answer these days is: I am a woman who takes control of what she eats and how she feels. I am a woman who loves taking good care of my body and eating MORE of the good stuff so the lesser stuff is, well, less appealing. I love slow food. I enjoy cooking meals and preparing whole food from scratch. I show my loved ones appreciation through cooking and sharing food. I’m learning to embrace slow, one day at a time. And as I pay attention to my food choices, my mind pays attention more easily to staying on track and focused on what’s important too.

Cheers to good choices,

Lisa

CLICK HERE  to join our CSA. I think you’re ready. I think you’re one of us.