New Study Links Keto Diet to Improved Mental Health Outcomes

A recent study conducted by researchers at Ohio State University has revealed that the ketogenic diet, commonly known as the keto diet, may provide significant benefits for mental health. While the diet is widely recognized for its weight loss properties, the findings indicate that its low-carbohydrate, high-fat regimen can also alleviate symptoms of depression.

The study involved a group of 16 students, consisting of 10 women and six men with an average age of 24. Each participant was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and was already undergoing treatment through medication or counseling. Over a period of at least 10 weeks, participants drastically reduced their carbohydrate intake to fewer than 50 grams per day while increasing their consumption of fats and proteins. This dietary shift resulted in a remarkable 70% decrease in depression symptoms.

Improved Cognitive Function and Well-Being

Published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, the study reported that participants experienced notable enhancements in their overall well-being. Improvements were observed in areas such as memory, processing speed, executive function, and attention. The researchers emphasized the importance of personalized dietary education, ensuring that participants understood the requirements and implications of the keto diet.

Drew Decker, the study’s first author and a graduate student, commented, “It was very important to make sure participants knew what they were getting themselves into. A big part of increasing adherence to the diet was discussing individual preferences to tailor suggestions for structuring their meals.”

The researchers also noted that achieving nutritional ketosis could serve as an additional therapeutic option for individuals suffering from depression. Despite acknowledging the absence of a non-keto control group for direct comparison, the magnitude of the observed improvements was unexpected. Lead author Jeff Volek, a human sciences professor at OSU, remarked on the findings, stating, “There’s a lot of evidence that ketones improve brain function and can change people’s mood through a variety of different neurochemicals.”

Weight Loss and Mental Health Connection

In addition to mental health benefits, the study found that participants lost weight, averaging 11 pounds and a 2.4% decrease in body fat. Volek pointed out that the relationship between physical and mental health is noteworthy, as individuals who are overweight or obese are statistically more likely to experience depression.

He emphasized that the ketogenic diet could be a viable option for those struggling with mental health issues. “If you are someone who is suffering from a mental health condition, this is another tool in the toolbox that might be worth trying,” Volek advised. He encouraged individuals to seek professional guidance to ensure they fully understand the principles of the ketogenic diet and receive support throughout the process.

As research continues to explore the links between diet and mental health, this study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that dietary choices can significantly impact psychological well-being.