For people living with serious mental illness like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, standard treatment with antipsychotic medications can be a double-edged sword. While these drugs help regulate brain chemistry, they often cause metabolic side effects such as insulin resistance and obesity, which are distressing enough that many patients stop taking the medications.
Now, a pilot study led by Stanford Medicine researchers has found that a ketogenic diet not only restores metabolic health in these patients as they continue their medications, but it further improves their psychiatric conditions. The results, published March 27 in Psychiatry Research, suggest that a dietary intervention can be a powerful aid in treating mental illness.
The article explores the potential benefits of a ketogenic diet in treating mental illness. Research indicates that this low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet could offer therapeutic effects for conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Studies have shown that the ketogenic diet can lead to changes in brain chemistry, including increased production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are associated with mood regulation and anxiety reduction. Additionally, the diet may promote neuroprotective effects, improve mitochondrial function, and reduce inflammation, all of which are relevant to mental health.
While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and efficacy of the ketogenic diet in mental health treatment, preliminary findings suggest promising results. However, it’s essential to approach dietary changes in consultation with healthcare professionals, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those on medication.
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Ketogenic Diet can be a Powerful Aid in Treating Mental Illness https://t.co/7mFDSXetRn #rehabnearme 855-339-1112
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