Energy balance
Interventions that raise ketone availability (via MCT oil, ketogenic diets, or ketone esters) improve cognitive outcomes in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's Disease (AD).
If you or a loved one has MCI or early Alzheimer's, raising ketone levels through MCT oil, a ketogenic diet, or ketone supplements may help improve cognitive function. This works by providing an alternative fuel source to the brain when glucose utilization is impaired. Consult a doctor before starting, especially if on medication.
Interventions that raise ketone availability to the brain improve cognitive outcomes in both MCI and AD as well as in acute experimental hypoglycemia.
Why this rating
Based on a review of multiple studies (Reger et al., Henderson et al., Krikorian et al.) which are cited but not detailed with full statistical rigor in this review article.
Source
Can Ketones Help Rescue Brain Fuel Supply in Later Life? Implications for Cognitive Health during Aging and the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Stephen C. Cunnane et al. · Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience · 2016
DOI 10.3389/fnmol.2016.00053
More from this paper
- In older adults and those with insulin resistance, brain glucose uptake is significantly reduced (hypometabolism) in specific regions (frontal, temporal, parietal cortex), creating an energy deficit that precedes cognitive decline and Alzheimer's Disease.Good
- Ketone bodies (beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate) serve as an effective alternative fuel for the brain in aging and Alzheimer's Disease because ketone uptake remains normal even when glucose uptake is impaired.Good
Related findings · Energy balance
- Achieving a total body weight loss of 10-15% (or >10-15 kg) through Total Diet Replacement (TDR) induces remission of Type 2 Diabetes in individuals with short-duration disease.Strong
- Bariatric surgery is superior to medical management alone for inducing significant long-term weight loss, remission of type 2 diabetes, and reduction in mortality for patients with BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with comorbidities.Strong
- Achieving type 2 diabetes remission requires significant weight loss (≥15 kg) via major caloric restriction, independent of macronutrient composition.Strong
This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →