A study from UC Davis demonstrates that a ketogenic diet notably delays early Alzheimer’s-related memory loss in mice, akin to mild cognitive impairment in humans, preceding full Alzheimer’s disease. The ketogenic diet, characterized by low carbs, high fat, and moderate protein, shifts metabolism towards burning fat and producing ketones for energy, with previous research indicating mice living 13% longer on such diets. This study shows that the molecule beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) plays a crucial role in staving off early memory decline, increasing nearly seven-fold on the ketogenic diet, potentially delaying mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s progression, according to co-corresponding author Gino Cortopassi. Administering BHB to mice mimicked the benefits of the keto diet, enhancing synaptic function and memory, particularly notable in females, who may be at higher risk for Alzheimer’s, as highlighted by professor Izumi Maezawa. While optimistic about the implications for healthy aging, the research team plans further investigation into BHB’s potential impact on memory and cognitive health.
Keto Diet Slows Early Stages of Alzheimer’s in Mice
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