Ketogenic Diet Shows Promise in Alleviating Depression Symptoms Among College Students
A recent study has revealed a significant correlation between adherence to a well-structured ketogenic diet and a notable reduction in depression symptoms among college students. The research indicates that participants experienced an approximate 70% decrease in self-reported and clinician-assessed depressive symptoms after adhering to the diet for at least 10 weeks.
In addition to the reduction in depressive symptoms, participants reported nearly a threefold increase in overall well-being, alongside improvements in cognitive performance. Out of the 16 students who completed the trial, all except one experienced weight loss.
The pilot study involved students already undergoing treatment for major depressive disorder, including medication and counseling. The findings indicate that achieving nutritional ketosis through dietary changes could serve as a viable supplementary treatment for depression, suggesting the need for further exploration through larger clinical trials.
Although the pilot study lacked a non-keto control group for comparative analysis, prior research has shown that conventional treatments such as medications and counseling typically result in a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms over a similar timeframe.
Lead researcher Jeff Volek, a professor at The Ohio State University, emphasized the urgency of addressing mental health issues among students. He noted the potential of a ketogenic diet as a complementary therapy for those suffering from depression and highlighted the need for increased access to such dietary interventions.
The study was conducted in collaboration with mental health professionals at Ohio State, focusing on the rising incidence of stress, anxiety, and depression among college students. Approximately 40% report experiencing symptoms of depression, with many not receiving adequate professional treatment.
For the trial, 24 students were initially enrolled, with 16 completing the study. Participants received comprehensive education about the ketogenic diet, which restricts carbohydrate intake to under 50 grams per day while emphasizing higher fat and moderate protein consumption. This dietary approach aims to shift the body's metabolism from glucose to ketones, providing an alternative energy source for the brain and body.
To ensure adherence, the research team tailored dietary suggestions to individual food preferences and provided practical support, including starter meals and regular communication through a dedicated app. Participants were encouraged to eat until satisfied, without focusing on caloric intake.
Throughout the study, depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5). Cognitive abilities were evaluated through a series of tests measuring memory, processing speed, and executive function.
At the conclusion of the trial, results indicated that participants maintained ketosis 73% of the time, demonstrating strong adherence to the diet. Self-reported depression scores showed a 37% decrease by week two, escalating to a 69% improvement by weeks 10 to 12. Clinician evaluations indicated a 59% reduction in depressive symptoms at week six and a 71% decrease by the end of the study.
Additionally, participants reported substantial improvements in perceived wellness, with average weight loss recorded at 11 pounds and a reduction in body fat by 2.4%. Cognitive performance also improved across various tasks, while no significant changes in cholesterol or triglyceride levels were observed.
Researchers noted the remarkable reduction in depressive symptoms associated with the ketogenic diet, suggesting a potential alternative or adjunct to traditional treatment methods. The findings are anticipated to spur further research into the mechanisms by which ketogenic diets may influence mood and cognitive function.
The study's findings have been published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, paving the way for future investigations into dietary interventions for mental health conditions.