Low-Carb, Clear Mind? What a Keto Diet Could Mean for Brain Health

🧠 Low-Carb, Clear Mind? What a Keto Diet Could Mean for Brain Health

We all know eating low carb can help with things like weight loss, steady energy, and even blood sugar balance—but what if it could also help protect your brain?

A fascinating study out of UC Davis recently found that a ketogenic diet—that’s the low-carb, high-fat one—may delay memory loss linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Yep, you read that right. Your food choices today could actually influence your brain health down the track.

🧬 What’s the big deal?

In the UC Davis study, researchers looked at mice that were genetically prone to develop Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. When those mice were fed a ketogenic diet, they showed significant delays in early memory decline compared to those on a standard diet.

The star of the show? A molecule called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). This is a ketone your body produces when you’re in ketosis (that’s what happens on a low-carb diet). BHB acts like a super fuel for your brain—helping with energy, reducing inflammation, and protecting brain cells. Scientists believe it may play a key role in preventing the kind of memory decline we see in Alzheimer’s.

But what about humans?

Great question! It’s not just about mouse studies—there are human trials too, and the results are pretty exciting.

One study from New Zealand involved a group of people with Alzheimer’s disease who followed a modified ketogenic diet for 12 weeks. The results? They experienced better daily functioning and improved quality of life. While the cognitive boost was modest, it was clear that the diet was not only safe and well-tolerated, but showed real potential to support brain health in people already facing cognitive challenges.

So, it’s not just hype—there’s real science backing the link between low-carb living and sharper thinking.

The Qetoe takeaway?

If you’re already enjoying your Qetoe low-carb staples—like our noodles, rice, or pasta—you’re not just making a delicious choice, you might also be doing something amazing for your brain.

And if you're new here, this might be your sign to give low carb a go. No extremes, no pressure—just tasty, feel-good food that works with your body. That’s the Qetoe way.

🧡 Here’s to good food, clear minds, and a brighter, sharper future.

References

1. UC Davis Health. (2024, March). Keto diet prevents early memory decline in mice. University of California, Davis. Retrieved from https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/keto-diet-prevents-early-memory-decline-in-mice/2024/03

2. Krikorian, R., et al. (2023). A randomized crossover trial of a modified ketogenic diet in Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer's & Dementia. Retrieved from https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.13178