Keto Diet Shows Promise in Reducing Depression Symptoms, Study Finds
A growing body of research suggests the ketogenic diet, frequently enough referred too as “keto,” may offer more than just weight loss – potentially alleviating symptoms of depression. New findings from Ohio State University (OSU) indicate that a well-formulated keto diet could significantly reduce depressive symptoms, offering a novel “adjunctive therapy” for those struggling with mental health.
Meaningful Reduction in Depression Scores Observed in Student Trial
A recent study identified approximately a 70% decrease in depression symptoms among 16 OSU students who adhered to a keto diet for at least 10 weeks, according to a press release. This outcome is especially noteworthy when compared to traditional treatments, with previous research demonstrating that medications and counseling typically reduce depressive symptoms by 30-50%.
Participants also showed improvements in several cognitive areas, such as memory, processing speed, executive function, and attention. Furthermore, all but one participant experienced weight loss, averaging 11 pounds and a 2.4% reduction in body fat.
The study group comprised 10 women and six men, with an average age of 24. Importantly, all participants were already receiving treatment – either medication, counseling, or a combination of both – for major depressive disorder prior to initiating the keto diet.
How Does Keto Impact Mental Health? The Role of Ketones
The keto diet operates by drastically reducing carbohydrate intake – typically to fewer than 50 grams per day – while increasing fat consumption and maintaining moderate protein levels. This metabolic shift forces the body to convert fat into ketones, which serve as an alternative fuel source for both the body and brain cells. This state of nutritional ketosis provides increased access to ketones, not only as fuel but also as signaling molecules.
“There’s a lot of evidence that ketones improve brain function and can change people’s mood through a variety of different neurochemicals,” explained jeff Volek, Ph.D., lead author of the study and a professor of human sciences at OSU, in an interview.”The ketones could have a direct impact on certain neurotransmitters and so forth that are related to depression.” He further noted the anti-inflammatory properties of ketones,suggesting another potential pathway for mood betterment.
Weight Loss and Mental Health: A Potential Connection
The observed weight loss among participants may also contribute to improved mental health. “There is evidence that people who are overweight and obese are more likely to be depressed,and there’s probably some connection there,” Volek shared.
Addressing the Student Mental Health Crisis
Study co-author Ryan Patel, a psychiatrist at OSU’s Office of Student Life Counseling and Consultation Service, highlighted the pressing need for accessible mental health solutions for college students. He noted that stress, anxiety, and depression are the biggest “impediment to academic performance” for U.S. college students, with approximately 40% reporting depressive symptoms and about half receiving treatment.
“We have a treatment gap in that we have more students suffering from mental health concerns than can feasibly receive professional treatment,” Patel stated.”There is a need for finding ways of helping students on a large scale, and nutrition is one way we can do that.”
Limitations and Future research
While promising, the study acknowledges limitations. According to Volek, the absence of a non-keto control group represents a key area for future research. A larger clinical trial incorporating a control group would strengthen the findings and provide a more definitive understanding of the keto diet’s impact on depression.
This pilot trial was supported by a grant from the Baszucki Group Brain Research Fund. For individuals struggling with a mental health disorder, Volek recommends exploring “different eating patterns” as a potential complementary approach. “If you are someone who is suffering from a mental health condition, this is another tool in the toolbox that might be worth trying,” he advised. “And if so, seek out help to find somebody who understands the principles of the ketogenic diet and can support you in that process.”
