Ask Dr. Nick
On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about the beneficial effects of ketones for the brain. The adult brain weighs 2% of the entire body but uses around 20% of the total energy! The main energy source is glucose under normal conditions. On the other hand, ketones are an alternative fuel source for the brain and body. The body can use glucose from sugar and carbs and fatty acids from fats, but the brain relies on glucose and ketones when available. Ketones are only made by the liver in times of fasting, starvation, or glucose restriction. When made they enter and supply the brain with constant energy that is more efficient than glucose. Additionally, ketones can be taken in the form of supplements like coconut or medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oils, ketone salts, and ketone esters. All forms can promote a state of ketosis, which can improve functioning in neurological disorders and neurodegeneration. Check out the video for more in depth information on the benefits that ketones have on the brain!
Poff AM, Moss S, Soliven M, D’Agostino DP. Ketone Supplementation: Meeting the Needs of the Brain in an Energy Crisis. Front Nutr. 2021;8:783659.
