The keto diet may help relieve depression due to its positive effects on the brain. However, someone may initially experience adverse effects from this diet, which may affect their mood.
The ketogenic or keto diet
This article explores how the keto diet affects mood and may relieve depression, explaining the physiological mechanisms. It also discusses how the diet may cause depression and gives tips for managing this mental health condition.

The keto diet saw its introduction in
These studies have found that the keto diet improves depression scores in some people with these conditions. In addition, other
Therefore, this eating plan may affect a person’s mood and depression in various ways.
Learn more about the keto diet.
Increases GABA
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter
Too much glutamate
Improves mitochondrial function
A
The mitochondria
The above 2022 review indicates that in the state of ketosis, scientists observed an increase in mitochondrial metabolism and energy production. The keto diet can potentially form new mitochondria and improve their function, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and increasing energy production in the brain.
Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in how depression presents, so the keto diet may be beneficial.
Decreases oxidative stress
A
According to the review, damaged mitochondria, ROS excess, and atypical glucose metabolism have a close interrelationship. The ketogenic diet can influence these processes and be beneficial for depression.
Regulates insulin function
The keto diet may help depression by regulating insulin, the hormone that controls the amount of sugar in the blood (glucose).
Some
Decreases inflammation
The low-glycemic nature of the keto diet may help reduce inflammation.
The keto diet
While these studies have shown that the keto diet may reduce inflammation, which can play a role in the development of depression, more research is necessary.
While there is no evidence that the keto diet causes depression, people may experience some initial adverse effects that could affect their mood. These effects
- fatigue
- insomnia
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea or vomiting
- constipation
- less exercise tolerance
However, these symptoms, which some people refer to as “keto flu,” typically resolve in a few days to a few weeks.
Additionally, any diet that limits certain foods may cause nutrient deficiencies. A 2017 review indicates that micronutrient deficiencies adversely affect the brain and may aggravate mental health conditions. Neurotransmitters need nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, to function. A lack of these could change the pattern of brain chemical neurotransmitter production, leading to conditions such as depression.
People adhering to a keto diet need to ensure they consume essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Some may wish to take a multivitamin and mineral supplement in addition to their diets. They can speak with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure their diet meets their nutritional needs.
Long-term adherence to a restricted diet may cause adverse effects physically and mentally. Therefore, experts advise that someone needs to follow a keto diet for a maximum of
A keto diet may help relieve depression through several mechanisms, including reducing oxidative stress, increasing GABA, and regulating insulin. However, more research is necessary to confirm this.
Initially, someone may experience adverse effects on a keto diet, affecting their mood, sleep, and energy levels. A person needs to ensure a keto diet is suitable for them and that they consume essential nutrients to support their mental and physical health.
It is a suitable idea to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning a new diet plan, such as keto.