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A pilot study led by Stanford Medicine researchers suggests that following a ketogenic diet could serve as a potent intervention for individuals grappling with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Published in Psychiatry Research, the findings reveal not only significant improvements in metabolic health but also notable enhancements in psychiatric conditions among participants.

Dr. Shebani Sethi, the lead author of the study and an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford Medicine, expressed enthusiasm regarding the study's outcomes.

"It's very promising and very encouraging that you can take back control of your illness in some way, aside from the usual standard of care," she said, Eureka Alert reported.

The study stemmed from Sethi's observation of a patient whose auditory hallucinations diminished upon adopting a ketogenic diet.

Inspired by this observation and the ketogenic diet's success in treating epilepsy, Sethi embarked on exploring its potential application in psychiatric conditions.

For four months, the research team monitored 21 adult participants diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, who were concurrently undergoing treatment with antipsychotic medications and exhibited metabolic abnormalities.

The participants adhered to a ketogenic diet, consuming approximately 10% of their calories from carbohydrates, 30% from protein and 60% from fat. The results were remarkable, with participants experiencing significant improvements in both metabolic and psychiatric parameters.

Sethi pointed out the profound impact of the dietary intervention, noting substantial reductions in weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglyceride levels and insulin resistance among participants.

Importantly, none of the participants met the criteria for metabolic syndrome post-intervention, suggesting a comprehensive reversal of metabolic abnormalities.

Beyond metabolic improvements, participants reported enhanced mental well-being, with notable improvements in sleep quality, mood, energy levels and overall life satisfaction.

These findings offer promising insights into the potential of dietary interventions in augmenting traditional psychiatric treatments.

Sethi's pioneering work in this field of study at Stanford Medicine's metabolic psychiatry clinic encourages a shift towards holistic approaches in mental health care.

Supported by various research funds, including the Baszucki Group Research Fund and the Obesity Treatment Foundation, the study heralds a new frontier in mental health treatment, offering hope and optimism for people grappling with complex psychiatric conditions.

"They are seeking more help. They are looking to just feel better," Sethi quipped.