The Therapeutic Effects of the Ketogenic Diet on Alzheimer's Patients: Review

Abstract

   Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a leading cause of cognitive decline with limited therapeutic options. Recent research has explored the potential of the ketogenic diet (KD) as a neuroprotective intervention for AD. This review synthesizes current evidence demonstrating the beneficial effects of KD on cognitive function, metabolic regulation, and neuroinflammation in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Studies indicate that ketone bodies, produced through a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, serve as an alternative energy source for neurons, potentially improving mitochondrial function and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, KD has been associated with reductions in amyloid-beta accumulation and neuroinflammatory markers. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the ketogenic diet offers a promising adjunct therapy for managing AD symptoms and slowing disease progression. Further rigorous clinical trials are warranted to establish standardized protocols and long-term safety of KD in this population.