Effects of Acute Ketone Supplementation on the Brain [KETO-BRAIN]
Christopher Crabtree
Summary
The purpose of this study is to determine how a ketone ester supplement affects brain function, brain blood flow, and brain metabolism in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Ketones are naturally produced by the body during periods of fasting or carbohydrate restriction and serve as an alternative fuel source for the brain. Researchers are interested in whether increasing blood ketone levels through supplementation can alter brain activity and blood flow in ways that may support healthy brain function. Participants will consume a ketone ester supplement and a placebo in separate study visits. Brain imaging, blood measurements, and cognitive testing will be used to evaluate the effects of each intervention. Findings from this study will help researchers better understand how ketones influence the healthy aging brain and may provide preliminary data for future studies in populations at risk for cognitive decline.
Description
Alzheimer's disease and other age-related neurodegenerative conditions are associated with changes in brain energy metabolism that can occur years before symptoms develop. One of the earliest findings in these conditions is reduced utilization of glucose by certain brain regions. Ketones, including beta-hydroxybutyrate, can serve as an alternative fuel source for the brain and may help support brain metabolism when glucose utilization is impaired. Experimental evidence also suggests ketones may influence cerebral blood flow, neurotransmitter balance, and functional brain connectivity. Despite…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 45–65 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age ≥45 years and ≤65 years 2. Able to comply with study requirements including presenting for each test session following an overnight fast and not following a ketogenic diet during the duration of the study. 3. BMI between 18.5 and 30 kg/m2 Exclusion Criteria: 1. Non-English Speaking 2. Currently taking a ketone ester supplement, ketone salt supplement, or on a ketogenic diet 3. Pregnancy, a urine pregnancy test will be given to all women before scanning to confirm nonpregnant status 4. Currently breastfeeding 5. Allergies to components in the test products, includi…
Interventions
- Dietary SupplementKetone Ester Drink
The ketone ester beverage contains 25 g of C8 Diester emulsified in a matrix of water, whey protein concentrate, modified gum acacia, natural and artificial flavors and cocoa powder. It contains 210 kcal, 0.5 g fat, 2 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein. Dose consumed is 50 g, 2 times per day for 2 days. The placebo (PL) will be calorie and volume matched to the KE and be formulated with standard dietary ingredients.
- Dietary SupplementPlacebo
The placebo drink will be calorie and volume matched to the KE and be formulated with standard dietary ingredients.
Location
- The Ohio State UniversityColumbus, Ohio