What if depression is partly a metabolic problem?
In this episode, Ben sits down with researcher Drew Decker from Dr. Jeff Volek’s lab to explore groundbreaking new research on the ketogenic diet and mental health.
Drew shares the results of a pilot study investigating the effects of nutritional ketosis on individuals suffering from major depressive disorder — with participants seeing an average 70% improvement in depression scores.
The conversation dives into:
* The connection between metabolism and mental health
* Why ketones may act as an alternative fuel source for the brain
* Brain energy, mitochondrial health & BDNF
* Why ketogenic diets may improve mood, cognition & resilience
* The feasibility of keto in real-world college students
* The role of ketosis in anxiety, depression & PTSD research
* Exogenous ketones vs nutritional ketosis
* Why metabolic psychiatry could transform mental health treatment
Drew also shares his personal story of overcoming migraines and mental health struggles following a traumatic brain injury — and how ketogenic nutrition changed the trajectory of his life and career.
This is a fascinating conversation at the intersection of neuroscience, nutrition, and mental health.
If you enjoyed the episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation.
Follow Drew:
Instagram: @drew_d_decker
Volek Lab: lowcarb.osu.edu
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Drew’s personal story & ketogenic diets
03:40 The mental health crisis
05:29 Brain energy & depression
06:06 The study hypothesis
10:58 Key study results
14:25 Ketogenic diets & accessibility
19:22 What defines a ketogenic diet?
23:44 The future of metabolic psychiatry
30:54 PTSD & future research
#Keto #MentalHealth #Depression #KetogenicDiet #MetabolicPsychiatry #Nutrition #Ketosis #Neuroscience #brainhealth
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medical treatment.
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