Think aBout It: The Ketogenic Diet

Our Blog today features our February topic for our Think aBout It educational campaign. Education is at the heart of what we do, and our Think aBout It campaign aims to dig deeper into all aspects of TBIs and neurological conditions. This February, we will cover research that suggests the ketogenic diet positively impacts neurological health.

What is the Ketogenic Diet? 

Commonly known as “keto”, this diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet designed to induce a state of ketosis in the body.  In ketosis, the body shifts from using glucose as its primary energy source to burning fats, leading to various metabolic benefits.   

  • Improved Cognitive Function: Ketones, the byproducts of fat metabolism during ketosis, are a positive and potent energy source for the brain. This may result in improved mental focus, clarity, and cognitive function.    

  • Neuroprotection: The ketogenic diet has shown promise in providing neuroprotective effects. It may help mitigate the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers tell us that more research is needed to validate.    

  • Seizure Control: Historically, the ketogenic diet was developed in part as a diet-based treatment for epilepsy. It has been particularly effective in reducing seizures in some individuals, especially children with drug-resistant epilepsy.

  • Inflammation Reduction: Chronic inflammation is linked to various neurological disorders. The ketogenic diet's anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to better brain health and a lower risk of neurological issues.

Getting Started with the Ketogenic Diet

If you're interested in the potential benefits of the ketogenic diet for neurological function, here are some practical tips to get started:

  • Consult your doctor or a Healthcare Professional: Before embarking on any dietary changes, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.   

  • Gradual Transition: Transitioning to a ketogenic diet should be done gradually to allow your body to adapt. Start by reducing carbohydrate intake while increasing healthy fats.  

  • Diverse and Nutrient-Rich Foods: Ensure your ketogenic diet includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including vegetables, nuts, seeds, and high-quality fats. And account for dietary fiber needs.

  • Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential, especially during the initial stages of ketosis. Drink plenty of water to support your overall health.    


And see all our Think About It material by going to our Think about It tab in programs on our webpage.  

December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

Plus One Foundation joins the health care community to help educate about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month. A month dedicated to help educate about seasonal depression, also known SAD, and the ways to alleviate its symptoms.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is more prevalent in regions with longer winters and areas with shorter sunlight days. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes. It can cause fatigue, depression, and social withdrawal due to a biochemical changes in the brain. Seasonal Affective Disorder affects approximately 5% of the population, or more than 16.4 million Americans.

Epilepsy Awareness Month

Epilepsy Awareness Month

Epilepsy, sometimes called “seizure disorder,” is a neurological disease that causes

recurring, unprovoked seizures. Every brain has the potential to seize, but a person

with epilepsy has a lower seizure threshold. Seizures are sudden, temporary surges

of abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain that change or disrupt the

way messages are sent between brain cells. These electrical surges can cause

involuntary changes in body movement or function, sensation, behavior, or

awareness.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is one of the most common mental health disorders – about 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults in the US have ADHD. A thorough evaluation may include looking at the person’s history of childhood behavior and school experiences, using standardized behavior rating scales or ADHD symptom checklists to determine whether one meets the diagnostic criteria, and using psychological tests that evaluate working memory, executive functioning, visual and spatial, or reasoning (thinking) skills.