A keto diet could be a game-changer in the fight against cognitive decline, with new research from the University of California suggesting it may stave off early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. The study indicates that this high-fat, low-carb diet alters brain cell communication, potentially delaying the onset of the disease.
Originally developed to manage epilepsy, the keto diet has gained popularity among those seeking a healthier lifestyle. It focuses on minimal carbohydrate intake while emphasising high levels of healthy fats, proteins, and certain fruits and vegetables.
Not only is the keto diet celebrated for its weight loss benefits and possible extension of lifespan, but it also appears to slow down early memory deterioration in younger individuals. Gino Cortopassi, a researcher involved in the study, commented: “The data support the idea that the ketogenic diet in general, and BHB (beta-hydroxybutyrate) specifically, delays mild cognitive impairment, and it may delay full-blown Alzheimer’s disease.”
Cortopassi clarified, however, that the findings do not suggest the diet can completely halt the progression of Alzheimer’s. With nearly a million UK residents living with dementia, of which Alzheimer’s is the leading cause, these insights are particularly significant.
In their latest research, scientists have delved further into previous findings that suggested a 13% increase in the lifespan of mice following a ketogenic diet. The study involved feeding animal models of Alzheimer’s disease a ketogenic diet for seven months and assessing cognitive memory and synaptic plasticity – the adaptability of neuronal connection sites, reports Gloucestershire Live.
(Image: Getty Images)
The researchers noted a significant rise in levels of circulating BHB (beta-hydroxybutyrate), produced during the keto diet, in both male and female mice compared to a control group. During fasting periods, BHB levels were found to be higher than in fed states, with females showing significantly elevated levels.
Upon examining the brains of the mice on the ketogenic diet, the team discovered that the brain’s memory storage mechanism had been notably ‘rescued’. If these results are replicated in human trials, it could mean a reduced risk of experiencing Alzheimer’s symptoms at a younger age, positioning the diet as a potential method to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
What is a ketogenic diet?
The NHS describes it as a high-fat, controlled protein, and limited carbohydrate diet, often used in cases of hard-to-control epilepsy. While not widely followed by individuals with epilepsy, studies suggest it can lead to a reduction in the number of seizures related to the condition.
However, the diet can be challenging to stick to and may result in several side effects. Typically, this diet plan involves cutting out high-carb foods like starchy fruits and veggies, bread, pasta, grains, and sugar, while upping the intake of high-fat foods like cream and butter.