Spotlight on Keto Research: Dec 27th 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, we celebrate how far ketogenic science has progressed this year, and reflect on some of the most pioneering research. This special edition of Spotlight on Keto Research features some of the most innovative studies published in 2024, spanning fields from cancer metabolism and diabetes remission to mental health and Alzheimer’s disease. Dive into these groundbreaking findings and explore how ketogenic approaches are unlocking new therapeutic possibilities!
📌 Qin et al. Ketogenic diet reshapes cancer metabolism through lysine β-hydroxybutyrylation
Lysine β-hydroxybutyrylation (Kbhb) is a modification to proteins induced by the ketogenic diet. This study found that the ketogenic diet affects Kbhb in the liver, particularly on the protein aldolase B, which plays a key role in cancer cell metabolism. By mimicking this protein modification, the study suggests that it can inhibit cancer cell growth by disrupting their metabolism, offering new insights into how the ketogenic diet may regulate disease processes.
📌 Schweickart et al. Serum and CSF metabolomics analysis shows Mediterranean Ketogenic Diet mitigates risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease
A Mediterranean Ketogenic Diet (MKD) may help address metabolic issues linked to Alzheimer’s disease. This randomized trial compared the effects of a modified MKD and the American Heart Association Diet (AHAD) on Alzheimer’s disease risk factors in older adults. Over six weeks, the MKD improved metabolic profiles by increasing ketone levels, reducing inflammation, enhancing lipid profiles, and increasing amino acid levels in cerebrospinal fluid, while the AHAD had little impact.
📌 Lundanes et al. Gastrointestinal hormones and subjective ratings of appetite after low-carbohydrate vs low-fat low-energy diets in females with lipedema - a randomized controlled trial
Low-carbohydrate diets may offer advantages in appetite regulation for women with lipedema compared to low-fat diets. This randomized controlled trial found that while both diets led to weight loss, the low-carbohydrate diet reduced postprandial ghrelin levels and increased feelings of fullness –– changes not observed with the low-fat diet. These findings suggest that low-carbohydrate diets may support sustainable weight loss in women with lipedema.
📌 Shebani Sethi MD, ABOM et al. Ketogenic Diet Intervention on Metabolic and Psychiatric Health in Bipolar and Schizophrenia: A Pilot Trial
Recommended by LinkedIn
A ketogenic diet (KD) may improve both metabolic and psychiatric health in individuals with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. In this 4-month pilot trial, participants experienced significant metabolic improvements, including reduced BMI, visceral fat, and insulin resistance. Additionally, psychiatric symptoms improved, with reduced severity of psychotic symptoms and enhanced life satisfaction and sleep quality. These findings highlight the potential of KD as an adjunctive therapy for serious mental illnesses.
📌 McKenzie et al. 5-Year effects of a novel continuous remote care model with carbohydrate-restricted nutrition therapy including nutritional ketosis in type 2 diabetes: An extension study
A long-term ketogenic diet, combined with continuous remote support, showed promise for both improving and achieving remission of type 2 diabetes. In a 5-year study, 20% of participants on a very-low-carbohydrate, telemedicine-supported intervention achieved diabetes remission, while many others experienced significant improvements in glycemic control, cardiovascular risk factors, and reduced reliance on medication. This approach opens up exciting possibilities for long-term diabetes management.
📌 Adrian Soto Mota et al. Increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol on a low-carbohydrate diet in adults with normal but not high body weight: A meta-analysis
Body-mass index may play a key role in how LDL cholesterol responds to low-carbohydrate diets (LCDs). This meta-analysis of 41 randomized controlled trials found that individuals with a lower BMI experienced a significant increase in LDL cholesterol, while those with higher BMIs saw a decrease, and those with intermediate BMIs showed little to no change. These findings provide insights for personalized dietary recommendations to manage cardiovascular disease risk.
Find more research summaries on our website!
#Keto #Ketogenicdiet #Nutritionaltherapy #Research