A new study published by Psychiatry Research found that people with metabolic issues related to treatment for mental health disorders showed improvement after adopting a keto diet.
This small study involved 23 participants with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Treatment plans for these mental illnesses can cause metabolic side effects that are difficult to reverse. ”
According to the study, participants followed a keto diet that:
- I don’t count calories.
- The macronutrient ratio is 10% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 60% fat.
- Reduce your carbohydrate intake to 20 grams unless it’s fiber.
- Eat 1 cup of vegetables per day.
- Eat 2 cups of salad per day.
- Drink 8 glasses of water a day.
Researchers found that 79% of participants showed improvement in psychiatric symptoms, which was attributed to stabilization of metabolic problems.
Additionally, the study found that 19% of patients reported improved sleep quality and 17% reported improved life satisfaction.
The researchers pointed to limitations of the study, including the small sample size and short trial period. The researchers still believe this study will lead to new opportunities to discuss and study the relationship between mental health and metabolic health, the study says.
Does mental illness affect physical health?
According to WebMD, poor mental health increases your risk of developing certain physical health conditions.
- Depression is thought to be associated with diabetes, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.
- Schizophrenia has been linked to heart and respiratory diseases.
- Mental health issues can cause insomnia and sleep apnea.
Does improving your physical health also improve your mental health?
According to research published last year, exercise and physical activity are associated with:
- Improving self-concept and body image.
- Improved sleep.
- I feel better.
- Managing substance cravings.
- Improvement of mental illness.
The Mental Health Foundation points out that you don’t have to go to the gym to enjoy these benefits of exercise. You can also:
- do housework.
- walk.
- bicycle.
- Climb the stairs.
- Transport heavy loads from one location to another.
How does diet affect mental illness?
According to Healthline, gut health is closely linked to brain health. When we eat certain foods, our gut bacteria can be positively or negatively affected, which ultimately has a positive or negative impact on our brain.
According to the American Academy of Nutrition, improving your diet, including getting enough vitamins, minerals, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, reduces inflammation and changes neurotransmitters that affect mental health. .
