A Keto Diet for ME/CFS
Is a Ketogenic Diet Right for ME/CFS?
Ketogenic diets, originally developed as a therapeutic tool for epilepsy, are now gaining traction as a potential treatment for a range of chronic conditions, including diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and perhaps even ME/CFS. Recent research highlights the benefits of ketosis for reducing oxidative stress, improving mitochondrial function, and modulating inflammation—all of which are relevant to ME/CFS.
Let’s dive into the science and explore how a ketogenic diet might benefit those with ME/CFS.
What is a Ketogenic Diet?
A ketogenic diet drastically reduces carbohydrates (to <20g/day or 5% of daily calories), forcing the body to shift from glucose metabolism to fat metabolism. The liver converts fats into ketone bodies, primarily β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which serves as an alternative fuel source, especially for the brain.
How Keto May Alleviate ME/CFS Symptoms
Research suggests that ketogenic diets may help ME/CFS symptoms through several mechanisms:
Oxidative Stress Reduction: By enhancing glutathione production and reducing free radical damage, ketogenic diets protect the mitochondria and central nervous system.
Mitochondrial Function: Ketones produce more ATP per unit of oxygen than glucose, offering a more efficient energy source while minimizing free radical generation.
Gut Health: BHB reduces lactate and increases serotonin in the gut—two factors implicated in ME/CFS.
Cerebral Blood Flow: Ketones improve blood flow to the brain, addressing the low cerebral perfusion observed in ME/CFS patients.
Growth Hormone Stimulation: Low blood glucose levels associated with keto stimulate growth hormone, which is often deficient in ME/CFS.
What the Research Says About Keto
Multiple Sclerosis: A 2018 study found that MS patients on a ketogenic diet reported reduced inflammation and improved quality of life compared to control groups.
Type II Diabetes: A landmark 1-year trial of 349 participants demonstrated significant weight loss, reduced medication use, and improved blood sugar regulation with a ketogenic diet.
Parkinson’s Disease: A ketogenic diet trial showed not only motor improvements but also reductions in fatigue, pain, and cognitive impairment.
Alzheimer’s Disease: A clinical trial using medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) found higher ketone levels were associated with improved cognitive performance.
Ongoing trials at institutions like Johns Hopkins and Wake Forest continue to explore the potential of ketogenic diets in various chronic conditions.
Is Keto Safe for ME/CFS?
While the ketogenic diet is generally safe, it’s important to approach it gradually, especially for those with ME/CFS. Rapid carbohydrate reduction can trigger hypoglycemia, so a slow transition is recommended.
Additionally, a well-designed ketogenic diet prioritizes nutrient density and healthy fats to avoid potential deficiencies. Consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any dietary intervention is crucial.
Share Your Experience
Have you tried a ketogenic diet for ME/CFS or fibromyalgia? Did it improve your symptoms? Let us know in the comments!
References
Boison D. (2017) New insights into the mechanisms of the ketogenic diet. Curr Opin Neurol. 30(2):187-192.
Bock, M. et al (2018) Ketogenic diets attenuate cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase gene expression in multiple sclerosis. EBioMedicine, Volume 36, 293 – 303.
Shen Y. et al. (2017) Bioenergetic state regulates innate inflammatory responses through the transcriptional co-repressor CtBP. Nature Communications: 8:624.
Paoli, A. et al. (2019) Ketogenic Diet and Microbiota: Friends or Enemies? Genes. 10(7), 534.
Hallberg SJ et al. (2018) Effectiveness and Safety of a Novel Care Model for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes at 1 Year: An Open-Label, Non-Randomized, Controlled Study. Diabetes Ther. 9(2):583-612.
