Researchers at the University of Michigan have explored how a ketogenic diet, characterized by high fat and very low carbohydrate intake, might influence conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. The findings, published in Frontiers in Neurology, add to a growing body of work examining how metabolic changes could affect brain health in these disorders.
A ketogenic eating pattern shifts the body’s fuel source from glucose to ketones, which are produced when fat is broken down for energy. This metabolic state is already used to manage treatment-resistant childhood epilepsy and has shown potential in several other neurological conditions. Some studies have also looked at how certain supplements that promote ketosis, including medium-chain triglycerides, may replicate some of these effects and are now under closer scrutiny in ongoing research.
To assess whether ketosis could benefit people with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or mild cognitive impairment, researchers synthesized available data from the PubMed database. They focused on randomized controlled trials, which are widely regarded as a robust source of evidence for therapy effectiveness. This approach helps clarify what patients and clinicians might expect from ketosis as part of a broader treatment plan.
Overall, the evidence suggested that ketosis could be probably effective for cognitive aspects in Alzheimer’s disease, with the strongest signals for cognitive improvements. In Parkinson’s disease, the data pointed to potential benefit for motor function, though the strength of this conclusion was more cautious. These ratings reflect careful consideration of the quality and consistency of the trials to date.
Among the specific interventions, medium-chain triglycerides were shown to improve cerebral blood flow in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease who do not carry the APOE ε4 genetic risk factor. In addition, these Ketogenic interventions appeared to reduce brain inflammation and enhance functional connectivity in select brain regions, offering a possible mechanism for observed benefits.
Despite promising signals, researchers acknowledge that the exact way ketosis works in Alzheimer’s disease remains unclear. Many trials involved relatively small participant groups, underscoring the need for larger, higher-quality studies to verify findings. Still, the current evidence supports continued exploration of ketogenic approaches for individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and related cognitive concerns, with attention to safety, individualized planning, and professional medical guidance. Experts emphasize that ketosis is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be considered as part of a comprehensive care strategy that includes medical evaluation, physical activity, cognitive stimulation, and nutrition, especially in diverse populations across Canada and the United States.