Exploring the Rationale for the Use of the Ketogenic Diet in the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders

Abstract

Background: The ketogenic diet (KD) was developed in the 1920s as a treatment for pediatric epilepsy and is emerging as a possible treatment option for certain mental health disorders. There is a link between certain mental health disorders and epilepsy, suggesting some commonality among underlying mechanisms. Methods: The literature relating to mental disorders and the KD is sparse. The authors attempt to a narrative review of the existing literature to show that there may be validity to studying the KD as a treatment for certain mental health disorders. Results: Various types of mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired oxidative metabolism have been identified in many mental health disorders (bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, autism, schizophrenia, and others). Mitochondrial deficits may affect neuroplasticity and cause synaptic dysfunction, which could change brain structure and function in a way that might affect behavior. The KD has been associated with epigenetic changes in the genes associated with mitochondrial function. Chronic oxidative stress and inflammation have also been implicated in mental health disorders and may be reduced by the KD. The KD regulates