Autism, Alzheimer's and bipolar disorder: Can the development of these mental health conditions be influenced by the ketogenic diet? Increasingly, research suggests it might. "For those it helps, it can be life-changing," says neuroscientist Eline Dekeyster. The turnout of more than 700 attendees, both live and online, at Eline Dekeyster's lecture on nutrition and the brain signals how popular the topic is.
Not surprising, according to the neuropsychologist. "Many people struggle with mental health issues , and more research shows that nutrition plays a significant role," she explains. Dekeyster heads the Lifestyle Brain Interaction lab, where she studies how nutrition affects the development of Alzheimer's and autism, among others.
Can lifestyle and diet help prevent such mental health issues? "Yes, I believe so," she asserts. Dekeyster and her colleagues study the effects of ketogenic interventions on mental health. "A ketogenic intervention," she explains, "is a way to bring the body into a state of ketosis, which occurs when you have a certain amount of ketones in your blood.
Ketones are a fuel for your body but can also regulate the expression of our DNA, influencing how our genes manifest. They also have anti-inflammatory effects and protect our brain cells." How do we achieve this state of ketosis with all its potential benefits? "There are three ways," Dekeyster explains.
"First, fasting: when you don't eat for an extended amount of time, your body first depletes its .
