Study: The Keto Diet Improves Symptoms of Treatment-Resistant Depression

SadaNews - A recent clinical study indicates that the keto diet, low in carbohydrates and high in fats, may provide a slight yet statistically significant improvement in individuals suffering from "treatment-resistant depression."

"Treatment-resistant depression" is a type of depression that does not respond to conventional treatments, such as antidepressants or psychotherapy, after sufficient time and at appropriate dosages.

Min Gao, PhD and associate professor at the University of Oxford, stated according to a report published on the "Everyday Health" website: "About a third of patients with depression do not fully respond to antidepressant medications. Meanwhile, there is increasing interest in the idea of whether diet, particularly the keto diet, can help improve mental health."

Despite the prevalent online testimonials and personal experiences regarding the role of "keto" in combating depression, Gao points to the lack of high-quality research to support these claims. "We wanted to study this carefully to understand if there are real benefits," says Min Gao.

The benefits of "keto" for depression... real but modest

The study was published in the journal "JAMA Psychiatry" and followed 88 participants with an average age of 42, all diagnosed with "treatment-resistant depression."

The researchers randomly divided the participants into two groups for six weeks: one group consumed pre-prepared meals according to the keto diet (less than 30 grams of carbohydrates per day), and the control group followed a balanced vegetarian diet.

The severity of depression was measured using the "PHQ-9" scale, which ranges from 0 to 27 points, at the beginning of the study and after 6 and 12 weeks.

At the end of the trial, the group following the keto diet showed a decrease of 10.5 points on the scale, compared to an 8.3 point reduction in the control group.

Gao states: "Our study shows that when the keto diet is tested carefully, any benefits seem real but modest and harder to maintain compared to some previous claims."

How might "keto" help alleviate depression?

Doctors explain that the keto diet supports the production of ketones, which are chemical compounds produced by the body from fats when there isn’t enough glucose available for energy. These compounds affect several pathways in the body linked to mood disorders and may contribute to anti-inflammatory changes and nerve health maintenance.

Some might also feel psychological and social support when following "keto," as they achieve a sense of success and belonging to a community practicing the same diet, which in turn provides purpose, enjoyment, and social connections, all of which help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Research also suggests that potential changes in brain energy usage, inflammation, and gut microbiome, or metabolism may play a role; however, these factors have not yet been conclusively established.

Should one try the "keto" diet for treating depression?

In this area, doctors emphasize that it is still early to prescribe the keto diet as an official treatment for treatment-resistant depression. Following the diet is not straightforward, and the potential benefits are not significant, according to experts.

Min Gao adds: "There is preliminary evidence, but it does not constitute a new recommendation. While there may be some benefits, the diet is challenging to adhere to, and we do not yet know enough about its long-term safety or who might benefit most from it. Anyone considering dietary changes for improving mental health should consult their doctor or mental health specialist."