Schizophrenia, gluten, and low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diets: a case report and review of the literature
2009
Schizophrenia and Low-Carbohydrate Diets: A Case Report
Sample size: 1
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Bryan D Kraft, Eric C Westman
Primary Institution: Duke University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Can a low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diet improve symptoms of schizophrenia?
Conclusion
The patient's longstanding schizophrenic symptoms resolved after starting a low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diet.
Supporting Evidence
- Previous studies suggested a link between gluten and schizophrenia.
- Patients with schizophrenia often consume more carbohydrates before episodes.
- Low-carbohydrate diets have been used for treating epilepsy and obesity.
Takeaway
A woman with schizophrenia stopped hearing voices after changing her diet to one that is low in carbohydrates.
Methodology
Case report detailing dietary changes and patient follow-up.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the subjective nature of symptom reporting.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case and lacks control or randomization.
Participant Demographics
70-year-old Caucasian female with a long history of schizophrenia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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