Keto Diet Day Delay Pre-Alzheimer’s Memory Decline
New research indicates that adhering to a keto diet effectively staved off the mild cognitive impairment commonly associated with the initial phases of Alzheimer’s disease. This was achieved by modifying the connectivity and communication patterns among brain cells. The researchers propose that embracing this diet regimen could serve as a strategy to postpone the emergence of Alzheimer’s disease in its entirety.
Despite its widespread attention, the ketogenic (keto) diet, characterized by low-carb, high-fat, and moderate protein intake, remains a topic of debate. On the positive side, research suggests that the keto diet could potentially prolong lifespan, offer protection against epileptic seizures, and improve the efficacy of chemotherapy treatments. However, critics, particularly nutritionists, have raised concerns about its long-term health implications, asserting that it may be inherently unhealthy. Additionally, studies have indicated that the keto diet has a higher environmental impact, contributing more to climate change compared to other dietary approaches.
Ketogenic Diet Delays Onset of Cognitive Decline in Mice
Researchers at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) recently conducted a study that unveils findings likely deemed advantageous.The study revealed that in mice, adhering to a ketogenic diet notably postponed the onset of mild cognitive impairment typically associated with the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This delay was attributed to elevated levels of the molecule beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB).
According to Gino Cortopassi, one of the study’s corresponding authors, “The data suggest that the ketogenic diet, and BHB specifically, can delay the onset of mild cognitive impairment, and potentially delay the progression to full-blown Alzheimer’s disease. However, it’s important to note that this does not entirely eliminate Alzheimer’s disease.”
Originating in 1921 as a method to manage epileptic seizures, the ketogenic diet remains in use for juvenile epilepsy treatment, especially for cases resistant to standard therapies, despite an unclear understanding of its precise mechanism of action. In recent years, there has been growing interest in its potential to enhance cognitive function and alleviate symptoms associated with neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and ALS.
The Mechanism Behind the Ketogenic Diet
The primary objective of the ketogenic diet is to transition the body’s energy source from glucose to fat. With minimal intake of carbohydrates, which provide glucose, the body resorts to breaking down fatty acids into ketones, including beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), for energy production. Ketones serve as an alternative fuel source for various organs and tissues, including the brain.
Building upon their prior research indicating that mice on a ketogenic diet exhibited a 13% increase in lifespan, the researchers in this study aimed to investigate how the brains of mice responded to the ketogenic diet. They administered a ketogenic diet to mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease for a period of seven months and evaluated cognitive memory and synaptic plasticity, which refers to the ability of neuronal connections to adapt and change in structure or function.
Following consumption of a ketogenic meal, both male and female mice exhibited a notable increase in circulating beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels compared to the control group. During fasting, BHB levels were higher than during the fed state and significantly elevated in females.
Gino Cortopassi commented, “If these findings were applicable to humans, it could be particularly significant, as females, particularly those carrying the APOE4 gene variant, are at a notably higher risk for Alzheimer’s.”
Ketogenic Diet’s Impact on Synaptic Plasticity in Mouse Brains
Analyzing mice brains on a ketogenic diet revealed enhanced memory retention mechanisms and activated genes associated with synaptic plasticity. Despite no decrease in beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, the findings suggest that the ketogenic diet, particularly beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), improves cognitive abilities and memory through strengthening synaptic plasticity.
Izumi Maezawa, another corresponding author of the study, stated, “We observed remarkable effects of BHB on enhancing synaptic function, which are the small structures connecting all nerve cells in the brain. Improving connectivity between nerve cells can ameliorate memory deficits associated with mild cognitive impairment.”
Researchers caution against widespread use of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) as a dietary supplement due to limited evidence on its effects on human memory and cognition. Purchasing BHB in large quantities is not recommended. Although ketone supplements are generally safe, they may cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Moreover, manufacturers frequently combine ketones with salts in these supplements, and health experts discourage excessive consumption.
Read the original article on: New Atlas
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