Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that plays key roles in managing stress, anxiety, and mood. Low GABA levels have been linked to clinical depression ( 8 ). Animal studies have found that following a ketogenic diet may increase circulating levels of GABA, potentially improving depressive symptoms.
People also ask, can the keto diet cause anxiety?
Being in a state of ketosis has been shown to increase production of a common neurotransmitter in the brain called GABA. There is evidence that various anxiety disorders result from dysfunctional GABA activity.
Additionally, what is the best diet for anxiety?
Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains — for example, oatmeal, quinoa, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals. Steer clear of foods that contain simple carbohydrates, such as sugary foods and drinks. Drink plenty of water. Even mild dehydration can affect your mood.
Does Keto affect serotonin?
The ketogenic diet was found to decrease the levels of metabolites of biogenic amines such as dopamine and serotonin which are neurotransmitters pivotal to the pathophysiology of depression (Dahlin et al., 2012). On the opposite, the ketogenic diet increased the levels of endogenous norepinephrine (Weinshenker, 2008).
Can ketosis cause depression?
Not everybody adjusts well into ketosis. Sometimes, your body may experience symptoms that are difficult to manage, including headaches, sleep disturbances, cramping, and fatigue. Although this may resolve by increasing your fluid intake, dealing with such symptoms can lead to depression.
Can keto diet affect your mood?
The keto diet is low in fibrous foods like grains and legumes. Fuzzy thinking and mood swings. “The brain needs sugar from healthy carbohydrates to function. Low-carb diets may cause confusion and irritability,” McManus says.
What does keto do to your brain?
A ketogenic diet also increases the number of mitochondria, so called “energy factories” in brain cells. A recent study found enhanced expression of genes encoding for mitochondrial enzymes and energy metabolism in the hippocampus, a part of the brain important for learning and memory.