Ketogenic Diet Shows Promise in Improving Serious Mental Illness Symptoms

The keto diet emerges as a promising complementary treatment, improving metabolic markers and reducing psychiatric symptoms in those with severe mental illness.

UAphoto/Shutterstock

A pilot study has uncovered an unlikely ally in the fight against serious mental illness.

The ketogenic diet, long touted for its weight-loss benefits, may be vital in tackling both the physical and psychiatric symptoms plaguing those living with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Reversing Antipsychotic-Induced Metabolic Issues

Antipsychotic medications can lead to metabolic side effects such as insulin resistance and obesity, causing many patients to discontinue treatment. However, new research from Stanford University suggests that the ketogenic diet could be a powerful aid in treating mental illness.