Fuel for thought

Dr Emma Derbyshire PhD has written a practical, neurodiversity-positive guide to boosting ADHD and dyslexic brain power.

What inspired you to write this book?

I presented at the ADHD Foundation conference annually and many parents asked me what they could do to support their child nutritionally. With dyslexia in my family, this inspired me to study this further. Putting the two together I realised there was scope for a book! 

What’s the biggest myth about neurodiversity and nutrition?

That we can eliminate it.  Nutrition is not a cure, but its reinforcement makes sense from the perspective of brain health.  Whilst medical and educational strategies are often mentioned the role of nutrition up until now was largely overlooked. 

“Nutrition is not a cure, but its reinforcement makes sense from the perspective of brain health.”

What’s your go-to brain-boosting snack?

Berries. They are mini-nutritional-powerhouses packed with vitamins, minerals and polyphenols. They can be eaten fresh, sprinkled onto breakfasts, eaten with yoghurt, blended into smoothies, frozen and put into drinks. The cognitive effects of eating and drinking them has been tested too in clinical trials.

One food everyone should eat more of? 

Oily fish. The brain is about 60% fat so it’s important that we feed it. Salmon, sardines, kippers, trout, mackerel and tuna are all examples of oily fish. We should aim to eat two portions of fish weekly, one of which should be oily.

Nutrition for ADHD and Dyslexia: Unlocking the Potential for Learning and Wellbeing by Dr Emma Derbyshire PhD @dremmaderbyshire