Obesity Is Not the Same for Everyone: The Hidden Role of Autism and ADHD in Treatment Response

A recent scoping review published in Nutrients examines the link between neurodiversity—specifically ADHD and autism—and obesity in adults. The findings show that ADHD is significantly overrepresented in adults with obesity, shaping a distinct clinical profile marked by impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, eating disorders, and poorer quality of life. These patients also show worse outcomes with standard behavioral and pharmacological weight-loss treatments.

By contrast, ADHD-specific medications appear to support meaningful weight loss. Bariatric surgery remains effective, but patients with ADHD face higher complication rates and lower adherence to follow-up.

The review also highlights a major research gap: despite clinical relevance, there is almost no evidence on autism and obesity in adults.

Overall, the study underscores the need for personalized, neurodiversity-informed obesity care, rather than relying solely on traditional weight-loss strategies.