Small Study Finds Ketogenic Diet May Ease Anorexia Nervosa Symptoms
A small clinical trial of women with anorexia nervosa found a 14-week ketogenic diet eased disorder symptoms without significant weight loss, suggesting a potential new treatment avenue that requires larger studies.[1]
The trial enrolled 22 women ages 18 to 45 with body mass index above 17.5.[1] They followed a 14-week ketogenic plan targeting roughly 70% fat, 20% protein and 10% carbohydrates to induce nutritional ketosis.[1] Eighteen participants completed the program; 72% of those completers scored in the recovered or normal range on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire.[1]
Anorexia nervosa is a severe psychiatric disorder with high medical risk and limited proven medical treatments. Study authors said the ketogenic approach was well tolerated and showed symptom reductions, but they urged replication in larger, more diverse populations before altering standard care.[1]
Clinicians and patients should treat these findings as preliminary and consult specialists before attempting major dietary changes for an eating disorder.
Show source details & analysis (1 source)
📌 Key Facts
- The study enrolled 22 women between 18 and 45 years old with anorexia nervosa and BMI above 17.5.
- Participants followed a 14-week ketogenic diet targeting 70% fat, 20% protein and 10% carbohydrates to achieve nutritional ketosis.
- Among 18 completers, 72% scored in the recovered or normal range on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire with no significant weight loss.
- Authors concluded ketogenic therapy was well-tolerated and showed potential to reduce anorexia nervosa symptoms but urged replication in larger, more diverse populations.
📰 Source Timeline (1)
Follow how coverage of this story developed over time