Mental health disorders are generally progressive, meaning the symptoms can worsen over time depending on the severity of the condition. Treatments include a combination of medications, supportive care, and even changes in food habits. More recently, studies and clinical trials have been conducted to analyze the effects of keto foods on common mental health disorders. Following are some benefits summarized based on the results.

1. Positive reinforcement
According to numerous studies conducted on the subject matter, switching to keto-based foods has some benefits. This alternative fuel source, ketosis, can help stabilize mood, increase brain power, and reduce oxidative stress on the brain. Consuming low carbohydrate foods or even eliminating carbs from one’s daily food intake will prompt the body to use fat as an alternative fuel source. This increase in the production of ketones will be sufficient to meet the brain’s energy needs for the day and reduces dependency on glucose. Clinical trials have been conducted to assess the viability of ketosis for patients who also suffer from psychiatric problems like schizophrenia.

2. Improves mood
Research suggests that one of the key benefits of using a keto approach is a boost in overall mood. This is for patients suffering from progressive disorders like dementia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and even depression. Studies show that being in a state of ketosis (where the body burns fat for energy in places of carbohydrates) increases the production of Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters. GABA inhibits nerve transmission to maintain a stable balance in brain activity. Increased GABA reception shows improvement in mood, reduces the risk of anxiety and mental stress.

3. Boosting brain activity
Ketosis triggers the body to produce ketones out of the fat burned for energy. Most research papers suggest glucose is a critical energy component for neural electrical transmissions. However, ketone bodies like beta-hydroxybutyrate may be more beneficial in promoting brain activity over natural glucose. It is a natural metabolic state of the body. Studies also suggest that ketosis increases the number of active energy cells in the brain, thus boosting brainpower.

4. Rich antioxidative effects
Brain inflammation is an increasing risk among several types of neural disorders, including psychiatric problems like schizophrenia. Several studies indicate that there might be a link between stress-based inflammation that may lead to the onset of schizophrenia among adults. For this reason, switching to keto-based foods that are low in carbohydrates may help reduce oxidative stress and the effects of inflammation. The enhanced energy source from ketone bodies and antioxidant properties of these foods may also reduce the risk of seizures among patients. Note that there is no conclusive proof as of now, but research in this regard shows promising results.

Combined, these changes in foods help develop a positive outlook and improve quality of life. But clinical trials for ketosis are still not conclusive. It is advisable to consult with doctors and nutritionists to understand the impact of these foods on overall health.