Feasibility Of An MI CBT Ketogenic Adherence Program For Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment

Researchers conducted a small feasibility study to test whether older adults with mild cognitive impairment (early memory and thinking problems) could successfully follow a ketogenic diet program and whether it might benefit their brain function. The ketogenic diet is a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan that puts the body into a metabolic state called ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of sugar.

Nine participants aged 64-75 completed a 6-week program that combined the ketogenic diet with motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to help them stick to the eating plan. Participants tracked their food intake daily and tested their urine to confirm they were in ketosis (producing ketones, which indicate the body is burning fat for energy). The researchers measured cognitive performance before and after the program using standardized neuropsychological tests.

The results were encouraging: all nine participants completed the full program, eight achieved measurable ketosis levels, and participants rated their own adherence highly (8.7 out of 10). Most importantly, cognitive test scores improved significantly from an average of 88 at the start to 96 after six weeks. While this was a small study without a control group, the improvements suggest that ketogenic nutrition might support brain health in people experiencing early cognitive decline.

This research connects to VALIA Health's metabolic approach by demonstrating how targeted nutritional interventions, when properly supported with behavioral coaching, may help preserve cognitive function as we age. The study provides preliminary evidence for using ketogenic diets as a therapeutic tool in concierge medicine practices focused on longevity and brain health optimization.