Healthy diet is consistently correlated with improvements to mental health, but what if a keto specific diet could help certain individuals?
Recent studies and pilot studies have revealed the potential for a ketogenic diet to support some populations in managing symptoms. These studies have been relatively small and still require further research to provide any clear indications for therapeutic benefit. But initial results do show benefits!
In an analysis of online reports on keto’s impact on mental health symptoms, results reveal improved mood stabilization among individuals with bipolar disorder. Additional outcomes of the analysis revealed self-reports of improved clarity of thought, increased energy, and decreased episodes of depression. Despite the positive responses, this subjective data is correlational and findings may not attribute directly to keto.
While this study has some major limitations, very recent research found a causal relationship in a controlled setting. In one study assessing effects of keto on both bipolar and schizophrenic patients, participants noticed relief of symptoms when fully and semi-adherent to keto.
So… why do what our bipolar clients put in their guts appear to cause such a shift? Well, evidence exists for a connection between the metabolic-inflammatory-mood pathway and clinical presentation of bipolar. This aligns with one of the many potential underlying causes of bipolar, which encompass neurological, metabolic, and other physiologic theories.
Pros: For some people with pervasive disorders, any opportunity for symptom reduction may be worth the effort. Additionally, healthy eating habits are beneficial; Enacting a specific diet for a therapeutic intervention ensures a degree of healthy eating.
Limits: Referral to a dietician or medical doctor is needed to facilitate client dietary changes. Remember, existing therapist resources do not include dietetics training! As of now, reliability of study results is still uncertain. More studies with greater numbers of participants are necessary. Additionally, studies measuring effects beyond a year are not currently available. Finally, some of these studies rely on self-report and do not account for other factors (other life changes made).
This line of research is still very much in it’s infancy. However, there is great potential here as supplemental treatment, if clients choose (and if dietary changes do not affect other medical conditions). With more time and study, this may be a feasible option for many clients.
