The keto diet may improve symptoms of depression through increasing GABA, decreasing inflammation, and more. However, certain aspects of the diet may worsen depression.
The keto diet exerts some positive effects on the brain and nervous system. Some evidence supports the use of the keto diet to help treat mood disorders, including depression.
Below are some of the ways in which a ketogenic diet may improve depression. However, it is important to note that much of the supporting research has been conducted in animals, and more human studies are needed.
Before you try keto
Before starting any new diet, it is important to consult with your primary care physician and a qualified mental health professional. They can advise you on whether it is safe and necessary.
May increase GABA
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that plays key roles in managing stress, anxiety, and mood. Low GABA levels may be associated with clinical depression.
Animal studies have found that following a ketogenic diet may increase GABA, potentially improving depressive symptoms. However, more research is needed.
May improve mitochondrial function
Mitochondria are cellular components that generate the energy cells need to function. Mitochondrial dysfunction — such as producing inadequate amounts of energy for the cell to function properly — may play a role in depression.
People with depression may have lower levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), an energy-providing compound, in their brains than people without depression.
A 2020 study found that, paired with exercise, a ketogenic diet may increase the production of ATP.
May decrease oxidative stress
Oxidative stress refers to cellular damage caused by free radicals. These are unstable compounds you’re exposed to in your daily life, and they can damage cells if they build up in your body.
Oxidative stress is associated with numerous diseases and health conditions. High levels of this stress have also been noted in people with depression.
However, following a ketogenic diet may decrease markers of oxidative stress and improve your antioxidant status.
May regulate insulin function
Insulin, a hormone that helps manage your blood sugar levels, may also play a role in depression and mood.
Insulin resistance is when the body
Following a ketogenic diet
May decrease inflammation
Chronic inflammation may be linked to depression.
The ketogenic diet may improve some markers of inflammation.
On the other hand, the keto diet may cause depressive symptoms or exacerbate depression in some people.
Additionally, the diet is extremely restrictive, requiring you to avoid:
- sugar
- starch
- legumes
- high carb fruits and vegetables
This excessive restriction may cause you to feel depressed — be it from avoiding “comfort” foods, making a significant, abrupt change to your regular diet, or even a nutrient deficiency.
Being deficient in the following nutrients may affect symptoms of depression:
- B vitamins
- vitamin D
- magnesium
- zinc
- selenium
- iron
- calcium
- omega-3 fatty acids
There may also be a social isolation component, especially if many of your social gatherings revolve around food. If you’re cooking at home more often to stick to your keto diet, you may experience some depressive episodes if you’re more socially isolated as a result.
If keto is worsening your depression
It’s important to remember that there’s a difference between feeling depressed occasionally and having a depressive disorder. It’s normal to feel sad sometimes, but if it’s affecting your ability to live your life normally, you should seek professional help.
If you feel that the diet itself is causing you to feel depressed because it’s excessively restrictive, has unpleasant side effects, or is contributing to social isolation, you should discontinue it.
Keto is a popular diet for weight loss and blood sugar management, but it was intended to treat epilepsy. It can also have other powerful effects on the brain and may play a role in managing mood disorders.
Emerging evidence suggests that keto may help with depression in several ways. However, the restrictive nature of the diet may leave some people feeling depressed.
If you’re concerned you may have depression, or if your diet is worsening your symptoms, you should seek help from a qualified mental health professional.