Can a ketogenic diet cure schizophrenia?

Experts state there is no credible evidence that ketogenic diets cure schizophrenia, although some preliminary studies suggest it may be a beneficial supplemental treatment when used with medication.

What did Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claim about diets and mental illness?

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claimed that the foods Americans eat are driving mental illness and suggested a ketogenic diet could cure schizophrenia.

Is the keto diet a replacement for schizophrenia medication?

No, current research indicates the keto diet is a feasible and acceptable supplemental treatment, meant to be used alongside neuroleptic (antipsychotic) medications, not as a replacement.

Home / Health / Keto Diet for Schizophrenia: Cure or Controversy?

Keto Diet for Schizophrenia: Cure or Controversy?

7 Feb

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Summary

Health Secretary claimed keto diet can cure schizophrenia.
Experts state there is no credible evidence for keto cure.
Keto may be a supplemental treatment alongside medication.

Keto Diet for Schizophrenia: Cure or Controversy?

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently suggested that Americans' diets are driving mental illness and that a ketogenic diet could potentially cure schizophrenia. This assertion, made on February 5th, referenced a 2019 study from Harvard where two women with schizophrenia reportedly entered remission after adopting a keto diet.

The ketogenic diet, characterized by low carbohydrates, moderate protein, and high fat, is known for its use in managing epilepsy and diabetes, and has gained popularity for weight loss. However, leading medical professionals have voiced strong opposition to the notion that it can cure mental disorders.

Columbia psychiatry professor Dr. Mark Olfson stated there is "no credible evidence" that ketogenic diets cure schizophrenia. Dr. Paul S. Appelbaum, also from Columbia University, described such suggestions as "misleading," noting that studies on keto and schizophrenia offer only "very preliminary evidence."