New research from the UC San Diego School of Medicine indicates that the ketogenic diet, commonly known for its weight-loss benefits, may also offer therapeutic potential for individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa. This severe psychiatric disorder is characterized by food restriction, low body weight, and a preoccupation with body shape and size.

Study Details and Findings

The study, published in the journal Nature, involved 22 women aged 18 to 45 with a history of anorexia nervosa and a body mass index (BMI) above 17.5. Over a 14-week period, participants adhered to a ketogenic diet plan consisting of 70% fat, 20% protein, and 10% carbohydrates. The aim was to maintain weight while inducing nutritional ketosis, a metabolic state where the body uses ketones for energy due to low carbohydrate intake.

Researchers monitored the participants through ketone testing, weekly weight checks, symptom questionnaires, and provided nutritional and psychiatric support. Among the 18 participants who completed the study, improvements were noted in eating disorder symptoms, including restraint, depression scores, and concerns about eating, shape, and weight. Additionally, 72% of participants scored in the recovered or normal range on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q).

Implications and Future Research

The study’s lead author, Dr. Guido Frank, emphasized the need for new approaches to treat anorexia nervosa, highlighting the potential of ketogenic therapy to address the neurometabolic dysfunction linked to the disorder. While the study’s findings are promising, the authors noted the limitations due to the small sample size and lack of diversity among participants. They recommend future research to replicate these findings in more diverse populations and to use objective assessments of brain function to further understand the impact of ketogenic therapy on brain glucose metabolism.

Overall, this study suggests that ketogenic dietary therapy is well-tolerated and could be a viable option for reducing symptoms of anorexia nervosa in adults who are mildly underweight or weight-restored. As research continues, this approach may offer hope for those seeking alternative treatments for this challenging condition.

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