A pilot study from Ohio State University suggests that a ketogenic diet may help reduce Keto Diet symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in young adults. Over 10–12 weeks, 16 college students following the diet reported an average 70% reduction in depression scores, alongside improvements in cognitive performance, overall well-being, and modest weight loss.
Participants were already receiving medication, counseling, or both, indicating that keto could serve as a feasible adjunctive therapy rather than a replacement for professional mental health support. Researchers caution that the small study lacked a control group, so further research is needed before keto can be recommended as a standalone treatment. The findings were published September 10 in Translational Psychiatry.
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Ketosis may improve brain function
The ketogenic diet’s benefits for neurological conditions like epilepsy are well established, and researchers are increasingly exploring its potential for brain health. In ketosis, the brain shifts from using glucose to ketones as its primary energy source, explained Mike Kocsis, founder of Balance My Hormones in the U.K., who was not involved in the Ohio State study. “
Ketones act as signaling molecules that can influence brain chemistry,” he told Healthline. “This metabolic shift may improve mitochondrial efficiency, reduce inflammation, and stabilize blood sugar levels—all linked to mood regulation.” Ketones may also support GABA, a calming neurotransmitter, potentially lowering anxiety and stabilizing emotions. In the study, participants showed improved cognitive performance alongside reduced depression scores, suggesting enhanced overall brain function.
Keto Diet and Other Mental Health Conditions
Emerging research suggests a ketogenic diet may support a range of neurological and psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. A small 2024 study of three adults reported complete remission of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder within 7–12 weeks of achieving nutritional ketosis. While these findings are promising, larger studies are needed to confirm the effects.
Experts caution that the keto diet should not replace professional treatment. Shelly Dar, a therapist specializing in mood disorders, emphasized that diet is best viewed as an adjunct to medication or counseling rather than a substitute. Participants in the Ohio State pilot study continued their usual treatments, which is considered the safest model.
There are potential risks, too: keto can be socially isolating, difficult to maintain, and may exacerbate disordered eating patterns. If pursuing the diet, gradual carbohydrate reduction and a focus on whole foods, healthy fats, and quality proteins are recommended.
Dar and Mike Kocsis agree that sustainable lifestyle habits such as good sleep, regular exercise, therapy, social support, and reduced alcohol use play a critical role in mood regulation. Small, consistent changes can be just as powerful for mental health as dietary interventions like keto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a keto diet help with depression?
A pilot study found that young adults following a ketogenic diet experienced a roughly 70% reduction in depression symptoms over 10–12 weeks. However, keto should be considered an adjunct, not a replacement, for professional treatment.
Is keto effective for other mental health conditions?
Early research suggests potential benefits for schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. A small study also reported remission of major depression and generalized anxiety in three adults. More research is needed.
Can I replace my medication or therapy with keto?
No. Experts emphasize that diet should complement, not replace, standard treatments such as medication or counseling. Participants in the studies continued their usual mental health care.
Are there risks to following keto?
Yes. Keto can be socially isolating, hard to maintain, and may trigger disordered eating patterns. Gradual carb reduction and nutrient-rich whole foods are recommended if attempting the diet.
What else supports mental health besides diet?
Good sleep, regular exercise, therapy, social support, and reducing alcohol or substance use are all key for mood regulation and overall mental well-being.
Conclusion
The emerging research on ketogenic diets suggests they may offer benefits for mental health, including reducing depression symptoms and supporting cognitive function. Early studies also hint at potential effects for other psychiatric and neurological conditions. However, experts stress that keto should be viewed as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for professional treatment. Maintaining a balanced diet, alongside proven strategies like therapy, medication, exercise, and healthy sleep, remains essential.