A recent pilot study has found that following a ketogenic diet may lead to a significant reduction in symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in young adults. Participants experienced a 70% decrease in depression symptoms within 10 to 12 weeks on the diet. They also reported improvements in mental clarity, overall well-being, and moderate weight loss.

While encouraging, experts caution that the keto diet should be considered a complement to professional mental health care—not a replacement.

Study Shows Promising Results

Researchers at Ohio State University tracked 16 college students diagnosed with MDD. All were already receiving standard treatment—either medication, therapy, or both—when they began the keto diet.

Over the course of 10 to 12 weeks, participants showed dramatic improvements, including a 70% reduction in depression scores, improved cognitive performance, and enhanced emotional well-being. The findings were published in Translational Psychiatry on September 10.

In comparison, existing treatments for depression usually result in about a 50% reduction in symptoms during a similar time frame.

Shelly Dar, a therapist specializing in anxiety and mood disorders, noted the significance of the findings but urged caution: “This is an impressive outcome, but it’s important to remember it was a small study without a control group. We can’t yet say for sure the diet caused the changes.”

The Science Behind Keto and Mental Health

Originally developed to manage epilepsy, the ketogenic diet is now being studied for its potential mental health benefits.

During ketosis, the body shifts from using glucose to ketones for energy. According to Mike Kocsis, founder of Balance My Hormones in the UK, this metabolic change may benefit brain health.

“Ketones act as signaling molecules,” he explained, “which can enhance mitochondrial function, reduce inflammation, and help regulate blood sugar—factors closely tied to mood and emotional regulation.”

Kocsis also pointed out that ketones may help support the GABA system, which is involved in calming the nervous system.

Participants in the study not only felt less depressed, but also performed better cognitively, possibly reflecting improved overall brain function.

Potential for Broader Use in Mental Health

Early research is exploring the potential of the ketogenic diet in managing a variety of psychiatric and neurological disorders, including:

• Bipolar disorder

• ADHD

• Schizophrenia

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

In a 2024 case study, three adults saw full remission of depression and generalized anxiety disorder after following a therapeutic ketogenic diet for 7 to 12 weeks. However, experts agree that more large-scale studies are needed to confirm these outcomes.

Diet Alone Isn’t a Solution

Although the pilot study offers hopeful results, mental health professionals stress that the ketogenic diet should not replace therapy or medication.

“In the study, participants kept up with their regular treatments,” Dar said. “That’s important. The diet appeared to help, but it wasn’t the only factor.”

She also warned about potential downsides. “Keto is highly restrictive. It can be socially limiting and may not be safe for those with a history of disordered eating,” she added.

Kocsis echoed this view, noting that dietary strategies should be integrated with other forms of treatment and introduced under professional guidance.

Supporting Mental Health Holistically

If you’re experiencing depression, it’s important to speak with a doctor or licensed mental health provider. Treatment often involves therapy, medication, and supportive lifestyle changes.

If incorporating a keto diet is part of your care plan, Kocsis recommends easing into it gradually to avoid symptoms like fatigue or “keto flu.” He also emphasizes eating whole, nutrient-dense foods, healthy fats, and high-quality protein.

Dar added that less restrictive diets—such as the Mediterranean diet or simply increasing whole foods—can also benefit mental health.

“The key is sustainability,” she said. “Find a routine that supports your well-being without adding unnecessary stress.”

Other foundational habits—like consistent sleep, regular exercise, meaningful social connections, and limiting alcohol—are just as critical to managing depression.

“Small, consistent steps—like getting better sleep or creating structure in your day—can be just as powerful as any diet,” Dar concluded.