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Symptom impact and safety of ketogenic therapy in adults with anorexia nervosa: a feasibility trial
Anorexia nervosa (AN) poses a major challenge in psychiatric treatment, marked by restrictive food intake and low body weight. Regrettably, even after achieving weight stability, individuals frequently face ongoing challenges, including body dissatisfaction and a debilitating fear of food, which can lead to relapse.
This research aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of a ketogenic dietary program over a span of 14 weeks in adults diagnosed with AN, particularly those categorized as mildly underweight or those who had restored their weight. The study also sought to determine whether this dietary intervention could alleviate symptoms associated with the disorder. In total, 22 participants entered the trial, with 18 completing it, reflecting an 82% retention rate.
The analysis employed repeated-measures MANCOVA, considering comorbid conditions and medications. The results were compelling, showing significant treatment effects with Wilk’s λ = 0.165, F = 2.383, p < 0.001. Participants exhibited a marked decline in scores on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) across various dimensions, including Restraint, Eating Concern, Shape Concern, and Weight Concern, along with reductions in depression levels. By the end of the study, 72% of participants had achieved EDE-Q and depression scores within the normal range.
Three months post-study, 39% of participants who completed the trial continued with the ketogenic dietary approach. Among these individuals, 28% experienced an increase in their EDE-Q Global scores, whereas those who did not maintain the diet showed a 64% rise in their scores. Importantly, the ketogenic dietary therapy did not exacerbate symptoms or cause any significant weight loss during the trial.
The findings indicate that ketogenic dietary therapy is not only well-tolerated but also holds potential in mitigating the core symptoms of anorexia nervosa in adults, whether they are slightly underweight or have regained their weight. This research paves the way for further exploration into ketogenic dietary interventions for this vulnerable population. [NPID: Anorexia, Ketogenic, body dissatisfaction]
Year: 2026
