Photo source: Medical News Today
Can a change in diet treat Alzheimer’s?
By Saanvi Mazumdar, Staff Writer
In the last few years, the ketogenic diet has gained a surprising number of followers. It has become a prominent part of several weight loss regimens widely promoted by celebrities and fitness influencers. However, in a recent turn of events, the ketogenic diet is now being studied for something far more complex—its potential to reduce symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
The ketogenic, or keto, diet is high in fats, which it uses as the primary source of energy. It is also moderate in proteins and low in carbohydrates. This ratio of nutrients creates a metabolic state called ketosis, in which the body uses fats instead of glucose to fuel its cells.
The keto diet was first used in the 1920s by Dr. Wilder at the Mayo Clinic. Wilder proposed it as a treatment for epilepsy, because the diet can alter the way the brain uses energy. Based on a similar theory, researchers now believe it could slow the rate of cognitive decline by potentially affecting brain metabolism and mitochondrial function.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a condition that causes progressive memory loss and affects cognitive function and behaviour. It affects around 11% of the population over 65 years of age. This is partly due to AD reducing the rate of glucose transport to the brain, thereby limiting the ability of neural cells to function. Since the ketogenic diet reduces the body’s reliance on glucose to generate energy, it could be a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s. Ketones can serve as an alternative energy source for brain cells, helping them function and potentially preventing the early onset of cognitive decline.
This is one of the key reasons multiple studies are being conducted to explore therapeutic techniques for Alzheimer’s. Research also suggests that the ketogenic diet may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, decreased mitochondrial function can impair brain activity and lead to neurodegenerative conditions; however, a ketogenic diet may help combat this issue. In theory, this could help preserve brain function for a longer time.
However, while the scientific findings are promising, the actual effectiveness of the ketogenic diet is still being researched. Many factors need to be examined before clinical studies can be conducted, since most studies so far have had small sample sizes or have only been conducted on model organisms.
Furthermore, ketogenic diets have several side effects, which is why our bodies naturally rely on glucose as a primary nutrient. An excess of fats and proteins forces the body to produce molecules called ketone bodies. Although these provide sufficient energy to cells, they can also cause bad breath, dehydration, high cholesterol, and kidney stones.
The ketogenic diet can also be very restrictive, as it eliminates foods containing simple or complex sugars, making it especially difficult to maintain for individuals with other dietary restrictions. Striking a balance between following this diet and avoiding malnutrition can be challenging. This crucial practical aspect should be considered in ongoing research, as it could potentially lead to unintended harmful consequences.
Alzheimer’s remains a disease with no cure, but the ketogenic diet offers a new perspective on using nutrition as a potential treatment for neurodegeneration. While it may not be a cure on its own, it could complement other treatment approaches. As research continues, there is much to look forward to—but it is increasingly clear that the relationship between food and the brain may be more complex than previously understood.
