Ep. 94 "Unlocking the Brain Benefits of the Ketogenic Diet"

Health Coach 4 Women

In this episode, Marsha will discuss the ketogenic diet and how it can have benefits for the brain. The ketogenic diet, also known as the "Keto Diet," and it is a high-fat, low-carb diet that is popular for weight loss and improving overall health. The diet works by forcing the body to burn fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, and this results in the liver producing ketones which can be used by the brain as an energy source.

Research has shown that the ketogenic diet can improve cognitive function, including memory, focus and attention in adults with cognitive impairment, and in children with neurological disorders such as epilepsy and autism. The diet may also protect the brain from damage by reducing inflammation and protecting against neuronal injury, this may make the diet useful in preventing or treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

Additionally, the ketogenic diet may have benefits for mental health, including improved symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, and increased levels of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which plays a role in neuroplasticity and mood regulation.

It's important to note that the ketogenic diet should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional and may not be appropriate for everyone. It can also have some side effects, like the "Keto flu."

In conclusion, the ketogenic diet has many potential benefits for the brain, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects. It's always recommended to consult with a licensed medical professional before starting any diet program.