Can a keto diet help manage Parkinson’s symptoms?

Question

Hello doctor,

I’m a 36-year-old male and was just diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which honestly wasn’t on my bingo card this early in life. Since getting the diagnosis, I’ve gone down every rabbit hole imaginable trying to figure out what I can actually do to help myself.

One thing that keeps popping up is the ketogenic diet, with some people claiming it helps brain function and symptoms. My neurologist told me not to believe everything I read online, but it’s hard not to look for ways to stack the deck in my favor.

Has anyone with Parkinson’s tried a keto diet soon after diagnosis, and did it make any noticeable difference in energy, movement, or overall quality of life?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It is no wonder that you try to find every means available to yourself considering the fact that you were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 36. Diagnosis of any disease at a young age is quite shocking, and it makes sense to look for ways to improve your situation.

There have been a few studies on the potential benefits of ketogenic diets to patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease. However, at the moment, the evidence for their usefulness is still scarce. In a few small studies, it has been shown that some individuals seem to have gained energy, improvement in non-motor symptoms, or wellness with such diets.

Some people also find the diet difficult to maintain and may experience side effects such as constipation, weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, or changes in cholesterol levels.

Exercise has been found to be the most evidence-supported lifestyle intervention for people with Parkinson’s disease in terms of helping mobility, balance, strength, and quality of life. Having a balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and proteins is also crucial. In case one wishes to adopt a ketogenic diet, it would be wise to consult one’s neurologist and even better to get advice from a dietitian.

It is worth remembering that many stories online come from individual experiences, and what helps one person may not help another. That does not mean there is no potential benefit, but it does mean expectations should remain realistic. Since your diagnosis is recent, focusing on proven treatments, staying physically active, maintaining good sleep habits, and building a strong relationship with your neurology team will likely have the greatest impact.

I hope my answer is clear to you.

Revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.