Ketogenic Diet and Alzheimer's Disease: A Narrative Review of the Connection Between Nutrition and Neuroprotection

Abstract

The search for therapies capable of reversing or attenuating the pathological damage associated with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) has intensified alongside global population aging. In this context, nutritional management through the Ketogenic Diet (KD) has gained increasing attention due to its potential effects on key pathological pathways and signaling mechanisms involved in AD. This review aimed to gather and synthesize recent evidence regarding the management of AD through the KD. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and SciELO databases using the keywords "ketogenic diet," "medium-chain triglycerides," "Alzheimer's disease," and "beta-amyloid" in both English and Portuguese. Original studies and systematic reviews published within the last 10 years were included. Eighteen articles were selected, comprising seven systematic reviews or meta-analyses, six preclinical studies, and five clinical trials. The main findings indicate that the KD influences pathways involved in AD pathogenesis and improves cognition, functional performance, and quality of life in APOE-negative patients with mild to moderate AD. The KD appears to be a promising adjunct to conventional pharmacological treatment. Based on the available evidence, the KD represents a potential therapeutic strategy, highlighting the need for more robust clinical trials to further elucidate its long-term applicability and safety.