Alzheimer’s disease affects over 850,000 people in the UK. Emerging research suggests that metabolic dysfunction — specifically impaired brain glucose metabolism — may be central to its development, opening the door to dietary interventions.
Some researchers describe late-onset Alzheimer’s as “type 3 diabetes” — the brain equivalent of insulin resistance. PET imaging shows that Alzheimer’s-affected brain regions show profoundly reduced glucose uptake decades before symptoms appear.
While Alzheimer’s brain regions cannot efficiently use glucose, they can use ketones. This is the central rationale for ketogenic intervention: providing the brain with an alternative fuel source that bypasses the glucose impairment.
A landmark 2004 study by Dr Samuel Henderson showed cognitive improvements in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s patients after consuming MCT oil (which raises ketones). Multiple subsequent trials have explored this further.
The evidence for keto in prevention (starting before significant neurological damage) is stronger than for treatment of established Alzheimer’s. Starting earlier is clearly better.
MCT oil, fatty fish, olive oil, and blueberries (in small keto-compatible amounts) are featured in our keto beverages and keto main dishes.