Diet Series – Is the Keto Diet Brain Healthy?

In the latest installment in our diet series, we’ll be looking into the greatly debated Ketogenic diet. How does this low-carb, high-fat approach to eating affect the health of our brains, and is it sustainable? Let’s look at the facts. 

What does the Keto diet involve?

The keto diet has grown vastly in popularity across the last decade, with many utilizing it as a means to achieve weight loss and improve metabolic markers. The method essentially involves allowing our bodies to consume energy largely from fat sources over carbohydrates.

Strictly speaking, carbohydrates are generally restricted to around 2-4% (around 20-50 grams for the average person) per day, with protein fairly unrestricted but making up around 6-8%, and the other 85-90% made up of fat.

The main aim of Keto is to put the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. In this state, the body mostly uses ketone bodies, which are derived from fat, rather than glucose from carbohydrates, as its main source of energy. By limiting the intake of carbohydrates and increasing the consumption of fat, the body's metabolism shifts into using ketones for energy.

How does this affect the brain?

The brain has very high energy demands, typically relying heavily on glucose as its primary source of fuel. When the body is in a state of ketosis, however, ketones become an alternative source of fuel for the brain, supplying up to 75% of its energy needs, with the other 25% coming from the small amounts of glucose from carbs consumed.

This can offer a steadier supply of energy without the fluctuations associated with blood sugar levels, may contribute to enhancements in cognitive ability, and help with memory and migraines. Let’s zoom in even more:

Keto and Epilepsy

Research has shown that the Keto diet may be beneficial in the management of epilepsy, especially in children with seizures that are drug-resistant. It’s thought that the reason for this may be due to increased mitochondrial function, reduced neuronal excitability, and altered neurotransmitter levels, although more research is needed to fully understand how the mechanism works.

Keto and Neurological Conditions

Some studies have also displayed promising results regarding the ketogenic diet and certain neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s Disease. Again, although there isn’t a large body of evidence, some research has shown that the reason for this could be that ketones may help to protect neurons, reduce neuroinflammation, and enhance mitochondrial function.

Limitations and risks

It’s important to discuss some of the limitations and risks associated with a diet as restrictive as keto.

• Although it presents an exciting avenue with a variety of potential benefits, the long-term feasibility is limited.

• Some people may find that the restrictive nature of the diet means losing out on a whole host of beneficial nutrients gained from a broader range of food sources.

• It should also be noted that a higher intake of saturated fat has been associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

So, whatever you choose, make sure to consult a medical professional first.