Depression today affects millions of people, especially students. But traditional treatments such as psychotherapy or antidepressants do not always work for everyone. A new study could therefore open a promising and … food track to treat depression. The ketogenic diet.
A pilot study with spectacular results
Published in the journal Translational Psychiatrythe study followed 24 students with major depression, 16 of which conducted food intervention at its end over 10 to 12 weeks. Result: their depressive symptoms fell on average by 70 %, with a clear improvement in general well-being.
“The authors report an average drop in depressive symptoms of around 70 %, with an improvement in well-being and certain cognitive tests”notes Dr. Guillaume Fond, psychiatrist and doctor of cellular and molecular biology, in True Medical. But he immediately nuances: “There was no control group, which prevents formally attributing the effects to the regime alone. ” So, possible, or not?
What is the ketogenic diet?
The ketogenic diet is based on a drastic reduction in carbohydrates (less than 30 to 50 g per day) to push the body to use fats as fuel. “”Fifty grams of carbohydrates, it is for example a small plate of pasta plus a natural yogurt, or two slices of crumb bread with a banana “illustrates Dr. Fond.
In the absence of available sugar, the liver manufactures ketone bodies-acetoacetate, acetone and β-hydroxybutyrate-which become an alternative energy source, including for the brain.
“These ketone bodies provide more stable energy, with less variations in mood and fatigue”also details the nutritionist Julie Boët. “”Thus, they could have an anti-inflammatory effect and regulate certain neurotransmitters involved in depression. “
An interesting track but not a miracle solution
For researchers, the link between metabolism and depression is an increasingly explored track. According to Julie Boët, small studies show an improvement in symptoms in some people, especially when depression is associated with metabolic problems such as overweight or diabetes. “”But there are still a lack of large reliable studies to confirm these effects. “
Dr. Fonde adds an important reserve: students in the study have benefited from close dietary support and food provided by the research team. “This facilitates membership but limits generalization outside intensive protocol”he warns.
Risks and limits to know
Let us also remember that the ketogenic diet is not without side effects. The first days, some participants felt tired, headache and cramps, a “ketogenic flu” which can brake some. “”In the study, these symptoms faded after correction of electrolytes. Good hydration and sufficient mineral intake often reduce them “, Specifies Dr. background, however.
But in the longer term, food constraints can weigh on daily life, and nutritional imbalances are possible. Julie Boët insists: “The ketogenic diet is very restrictive and can cause digestive disorders, deficiencies or a lipid imbalance. It is not suitable for everyone and can be dangerous in the event of kidney, liver or poorly controlled diabetes. “
Above all, the two experts recall that this diet is not a treatment in itself. “It does not heal depression. It is a complex disease, which requires global management: psychotherapy, sometimes drugs, lifestyle, social support … Food can be aid, but never replaces medical follow -up”insists Julie Boët.
In the end, the ketogenic diet could represent an interesting complementary track for certain patients with depression, but it remains experimental. The results of this pilot study are encouraging, but insufficient to make it a generalizable solution. If this solution tempts you, however, experts recall the need for strict medical supervision and new large -scale studies before considering its use in current practice.