Metabolic Mind

Nurturing your relationship with yourself and your body can play a meaningful role in how you move forward from a mental health setback.Nicole Laurent shares a grounded, compassionate perspective on navigating setbacks. She explores how these moments can sometimes disrupt trust in ourselves, creating an internal tension that makes progress feel harder than it needs to be.She explores:Why setbacks can shake trust in your body, and how to rebuild itHow to approach challenges with curiosity instead of self-judgmentCommon triggers that can lead to going off trackHow mindset and framing influence long-term successHow your relationship with food and your body can evolve over timeThe key takeaway: setbacks are part of the learning process. Reconnecting with the idea that your body is working toward balance can help you move forward with more clarity, confidence, and resilience.💡Learn more about navigating setbacks on the mental health journey in our blog: How to Bounce Back from Challenges and Setbacks.🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicPsychiatryExpert Featured:Nicole Laurent, LMHChttps://mentalhealthketo.com/nicole-laurent-lmhc-about-me/https://x.com/KetoCounselorhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nlaurent/https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthketo/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Is high LDL cholesterol always a red flag?For a growing group of people known as Lean Mass Hyper-Responders (LMHRs), the answer might not be so black and white.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher unpacks the science and questions behind LMHRs—metabolically healthy, lean individuals who see a dramatic rise in LDL cholesterol after starting a ketogenic diet. Unlike people with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), their elevated LDL occurs in a unique metabolic context: low insulin, high HDL, low triglycerides, excellent metabolic health, and comes on only after adopting a ketogenic diet.🔍 In this video, you'll learn:• What defines a Lean Mass Hyper-Responder• Why conventional cholesterol risk frameworks may not apply to LMHRs• The key differences between LMHRs and those with familial hypercholesterolemia• Why context, like insulin sensitivity and metabolic health, might matter• Why this phenomenon deserves thoughtful study, not assumptionsThis growing curiosity around LMHRs is the focus of a powerful new documentary: The Cholesterol Code. Featuring researchers, clinicians, and individuals living with this phenotype, the film challenges long-held beliefs about cholesterol, risk, and metabolic health, and opens the door to a more nuanced conversation🎬 Real change starts with real conversations. Join us in sharing The Cholesterol Code, a powerful film that challenges outdated thinking about cholesterol and heart health. Sign up to host a screening or find one near you at 🔗 https://cholesterolcodemovie.com/host-a-screening/.Together, we can reach the people who need this most.🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine #LDLCholesterolExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:https://cholesterolcodemovie.comFree CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Are we destined for cognitive decline as we age, or do we have more control than we think?In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with neuroscientist and researcher Dr. Tommy Wood to explore a powerful shift in how we think about brain health, aging, and dementia prevention.Dr. Wood challenges the common belief that cognitive decline is inevitable, highlighting how lifestyle, environment, and daily habits can meaningfully shape our brain’s trajectory over time. He introduces his “3S Framework”—Stimulus, Supply, and Support—to explain how brain function is built, maintained, and optimized across the lifespan.In this interview, you’ll learn:Why cognitive decline isn’t inevitableHow mindset and engagement can influence brain agingThe role of metabolic health and energy supply in brain functionHow nutrition, sleep, exercise, and social connection interact to support the brainWhere ketogenic therapy and ketones may fit into brain health and cognitive declineHow to navigate modern challenges like technology, AI, and information overload from a brain health perspectiveDr. Wood also shares insights from his upcoming book, The Stimulated Mind, offering a practical framework to help individuals “future-proof” their brain and stay sharp in an ever-changing world.The key takeaway: brain health isn’t about a single intervention. It’s about consistently engaging, fueling, and supporting the brain in ways that promote resilience over time.💡 To learn more about metabolic approaches to brain and mental health, visit metabolicmind.org or sign up fo the Metabolic Mind newsletter at metabolicmind.org/newsletter🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #DementiaExpert Featured:Dr. Tommy Woodhttps://www.drtommywood.com/https://www.instagram.com/drtommywood/Resources Mentioned:Dr. Wood's Bookhttps://www.drtommywood.com/stimulated-mindGoogle effects on memory: cognitive consequences of having information at our fingertipshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21764755/Adult Changes in Thought study: dementia is an individually varying convergent syndrome with prevalent clinically silent diseases that may be modified by some commonly used therapeuticshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22471861/Dietary cholesterol or egg consumption do not increase the risk of stroke, Finnish study findshttps://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/05/190520093448.htmMultimodal strategy to rescue the brain in mild cognitive impairment: Ketogenic oral nutrition supplementation with B vitamins and aerobic exercisehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9541319/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

In this second video of our Bounce Back Series, Dr. Georgia Ede shares practical, compassionate guidance for returning to ketosis using simple, effective strategies rooted in diet and lifestyle.Rather than approaching setbacks with frustration or perfectionism, Dr. Ede emphasizes a mindset of curiosity and learning. Falling out of ketosis will happen and it’s not a failure. With the right tools, you can use that information to refine what works best for your body.In this video, you’ll learn:Why “ketosis interruptions” are normal and part of the processHow mindset plays a critical role in long-term successSimple strategies to return to ketosis quickly, including fasting and exerciseHow food choices can support appetite regulation and metabolic stabilityThe role of supplements like exogenous ketones and their limitationsWhy personalization is key to sustainable metabolic healthDr. Ede also explains the underlying physiology of ketosis: how insulin, glucose, and stored glycogen influence your body’s ability to shift back into fat-burning mode.The key takeaway: consistency matters, but perfection isn’t required. With the right approach, you can recover quickly, learn from the experience, and continue moving forward.💡Learn more about navigating setbacks on the mental health journey in our blog: How to Bounce Back from Challenges and Setbacks.Check out part 1 of this series: https://youtu.be/C4KCNIO31tM🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicPsychiatryExpert Featured:Dr. Georgia Edehttps://www.diagnosisdiet.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiaedemdhttps://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaEdeMd/https://www.instagram.com/georgiaedemd/?hl=enFree CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

If you only read the headlines, it sounds simple: plants are protective, red meat is harmful. But when you examine the actual studies behind those claims, the conclusions aren’t nearly so clear.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher takes a closer look at two recently published papers, one linking red meat consumption to diabetes risk and another suggesting vegetarian diets reduce cancer risk. Both studies rely on observational nutrition data, which can reveal associations but cannot prove cause and effect.In this video, you'll learn:Why many nutrition headlines oversimplify complex researchThe difference between observational studies and causal evidenceHow healthy user bias and lifestyle confounding can distort resultsWhy hazard ratios in nutrition studies are often too small to draw meaningful conclusionsHow media coverage and expert commentary can reinforce existing dietary narrativesDr. Scher explains why these studies may say more about overall lifestyle patterns like calorie intake, diet quality, alcohol use, and smoking, than about individual foods like red meat or plant-based diets.The bigger takeaway: nutrition science is nuanced, and the best diet for metabolic health may vary from person to person. Instead of focusing on simplistic narratives like “meat bad, plants good,” we should focus on improving overall dietary quality and metabolic health.💡If you’re looking for deeper, more nuanced discussions about nutrition, metabolic health, and mental health, explore our resources at metabolicmind.org.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Vegetarian diets and cancer risk: pooled analysis of 1.8 million women and men in nine prospective studies on three continentshttps://www.nature.com/articles/s41416-025-03327-4Association between red meat intake and diabetes: a cross-sectional analysis of a nationally representative sample of US adults (NHANES 2003-2016)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667215/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

In this special episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Julie Milder, Director of Neuroscience at Baszucki Group, speaks with Dr. Fabiano Gomes, psychiatrist and researcher at McMaster University, and the inaugural recipient of the Baszucki Group Metabolic Psychiatry Scholar Award.Dr. Gomes recently published a pilot feasibility trial of a ketogenic diet for depression in the Journal of Affective Disorders. In this conversation, he shares how the study came together, what the results revealed, and why metabolic approaches may offer new hope for people struggling with treatment-resistant depression.In this episode, they discuss:The pilot ketogenic diet trial for depression and its key findingsHow the study successfully transitioned to a fully remote clinical trial during COVIDWhat the results suggest about feasibility, adherence, and clinical improvementsThe role of nutritional ketosis in mood disorders and metabolic psychiatryDr. Gomes’ vision for launching a Metabolic Psychiatry Clinic in CanadaPlans to integrate biomarkers, brain imaging, and real-world clinical careThe importance of training clinicians and dietitians to expand access to metabolic therapiesDr. Gomes’s work represents an exciting step forward in the growing field of metabolic psychiatry, which explores how metabolism and brain energy may influence conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders.The conversation also highlights the importance of building clinical infrastructure and training programs to make metabolic therapies more accessible to patients today.💡Learn more about the growing research on metabolic psychiatry and depression on our Depression Topic Page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-for-depression/👍 If you found this discussion helpful, please like and subscribe for more conversations about metabolic health and mental health.🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #DepressionExpert Featured:Dr. Julie Milderhttps://www.metabolicmind.org/team/julie-milder-phd/http://linkedin.com/in/juliemilderDr. Fabiano Gomeshttps://www.instagram.com/dr.fabianogomes/linkedin.com/in/fabiano-gomes-b03b492a/https://x.com/fagomes1981Resources Mentioned:https://canbind.ca/Medically supervised ketogenic diet as an adjunctive treatment for moderate to severe depression: A pilot studyhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2025.121079Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Setbacks are a natural part of any journey, and mental health recovery is no exception. In this video, Dr. Matt Bernstein shares a powerful perspective on why downturns aren’t failures, but opportunities to learn, adapt, and build resilience.Rather than viewing setbacks as something to fear or avoid, Dr. Bernstein explains how adopting a growth mindset can transform the way we respond to challenges. With the right preparation and support, moments of struggle can become key turning points in long-term recovery.In this video, you’ll learn:Why setbacks are normal in any recovery journeyHow to reframe “failures” as opportunities for growthThe importance of identifying early warning signsHow to build a personal plan for navigating downturnsWhy support systems and connection are critical during difficult timesHow tools like mindfulness and structured planning can help you regain momentumDr. Bernstein also discusses practical strategies like creating a Wellness Recovery Action Plan, leveraging your support network, and even planning ahead for more serious crises with tools like a healthcare proxy.If you’re navigating mental health challenges or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical tools and a more compassionate framework for the journey.💡Learn more about navigating setbacks on the mental health journey in our detailed article: How to Bounce Back from Challenges and Setbacks.🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicPsychiatryExpert Featured:Dr. Matt Bernsteinhttps://accordmh.com/http://linkedin.com/in/matthew-bernstein-md-5743338Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Can a ketogenic diet improve mental health?This week marks a significant moment for metabolic psychiatry and ketogenic therapy for serious mental illness.A New York Times piece highlighted early research from Stanford University, The Ohio State University, and the University of Edinburgh—alongside stories from individuals who have shared their lived experience here on Metabolic Mind.This kind of visibility matters. It reflects years of work by researchers and clinicians like Drs. Chris Palmer, Shebani Sethi, and Iain Campbell, research funded by Baszucki Group, advocates like Jan Baszucki, as well as the many people who have been willing to share their personal stories.Lived experience alone isn’t enough. Early data alone isn’t enough. But together, they point to something that must be tested, confirmed — or challenged — through high-quality science. That’s why we are excited about several RCTs currently completed or underway around the world.We need to continue efforts to advance education, public awareness and research on a scale that will require public funding. That’s how medicine moves forward. And that’s the exciting work ahead.📰 Read the full article here: https://nyti.ms/4sj2WZDHear more from our founder Jan Baszucki, calling for further investments in research and clinical care, and sharing her family’s story highlighting how after a decade of illness, ketogenic therapy sent her son's bipolar I disorder symptoms into remission and has kept him there since 2021.🔗 Read Jan’s op-ed: https://bit.ly/4dpkU7Z🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:NYT Article: Can the Keto Diet Really Improve Mental Health?https://nyti.ms/4sj2WZDFoundational Clinical Trials Pagehttps://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/science/clinical-trials/Maya Schumer’s THINK+SMART Profile:https://www.metabolicmind.org/thinksmart/explore-strategies/maya-schumer/Lewis Anstee’s THINK+SMART Profile:https://www.metabolicmind.org/thinksmart/explore-strategies/lewis-anstee/Lived Experience Stories & Strategieshttps://www.metabolicmind.org/thinksmart/explore-strategies/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Can the ketogenic diet help improve symptoms for individuals living with treatment-resistant depression?In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Megan Kirk Chang, a senior researcher in metabolic psychiatry at the University of Oxford and a co-author of the recently published DIME trial.This study represents the first randomized clinical trial to evaluate a ketogenic diet in adults with treatment-resistant depression.Participants were assigned to either a ketogenic diet or a plant-rich comparison diet for six weeks to assess whether dietary intervention could influence depressive symptoms. Both groups experienced meaningful improvements in depression scores, with the ketogenic diet slightly outperforming the control group at 6 weeks.While the difference between groups did not reach the threshold for statistical significance, the findings suggest a positive signal that warrants further investigation.In this interview, Dr. Kirk Chang reflects on:The strengths of the study and where she sees opportunity for improvement.What the modest difference between diets might meanWhy early pilot trials are designed to detect signals rather than definitive answersWhat the study revealed about adherence, cravings, and behavioral factorsHow these results will inform larger and longer clinical trials now being plannedAs Dr. Kirk Chang explains, this six-week pilot trial was designed as proof-of-concept research to determine whether there is enough signal to justify larger studies in metabolic psychiatry.At Metabolic Mind, we view studies like this as an important step in a growing scientific effort to understand how metabolism and nutrition may influence serious mental illness. Each new study contributes to the evolving evidence base that will help researchers determine who may benefit, why, and under what conditions.🔗 To learn more about the available evidence for ketogenic therapy in depression and our top resources, visit our Depression Topic Page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-for-depression/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Megan Kirk Chang, PhDSenior Researcher, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxfordhttps://x.com/DrMegKirkChanghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/megankirkchang/Resources Mentioned:A Ketogenic Diet for Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trialhttps://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2025.4431Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

A new meta-analysis just dropped, and once again, saturated fat takes center stage. But does the data actually support the decades-long warnings we've heard about saturated fat and heart disease? Not exactly.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher dives deep into a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine that reviewed randomized controlled trials on saturated fat intake and health outcomes.Despite the headlines and abstract language hinting at risk, a closer look at the data reveals no statistically significant increase in heart attacks, strokes, or early death, even with modest increases in LDL.So why the disconnect between what the data shows and what the authors claim? Dr. Scher breaks it down and explores the nuances often missing from the conversation about saturated fat, including context like food quality, carbohydrate intake, metabolic health, and lifestyle factors that make a big difference.🔍 Key Topics Covered:What this new meta-analysis actually found (vs. what it claimed)The persistent bias in nutrition science and reportingWhy LDL isn’t the whole storyHow dietary context, like carbs, processing, and lifestyle, matters more than saturated fat aloneWhy focusing on whole dietary patterns is essential for metabolic healthDr. Scher says it best, “If the medical and dietetic institutions are so certain that saturated fat is harmful, why are there so many studies that fail to reach meaningful conclusions?”To learn more about ketogenic therapy and heart disease, check out our Is Keto Safe Topic Page for more content from cardiologist Dr. Bret Scher breaking down keto, dietary fat, saturated fat, LDL, and more.https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/is-keto-safe/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Effect of Interventions Aimed at Reducing or Modifying Saturated Fat Intake on Cholesterol, Mortality, and Major Cardiovascular Events: A Risk Stratified Systematic Review of Randomized Trialshttps://doi.org/10.7326/ANNALS-25-02229Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

You may have seen headlines or social media posts claiming that ketones increase the risk of heart attacks and that this proves ketogenic diets are dangerous for heart health. But when you actually examine the study behind those claims, the data tell a very different story.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher takes a closer look at a recent paper published in the Journal of the American Heart Association that analyzed circulating ketone levels in participants from the UK Biobank. The study has been widely shared online as evidence against ketogenic diets. The issue? The participants weren’t following a ketogenic diet at all.Instead, researchers measured very small baseline ketone levels in a general population that was consuming around 250 grams of carbohydrates per day, that’s far from the levels associated with nutritional ketosis.In this video, you’ll learn:Why this study was not a ketogenic diet studyThe difference between association and causation in epidemiologyWhy the measured ketone levels were far below nutritional ketosisHow metabolic stress, illness, or diabetes can raise ketone levels independently of dietWhy these findings don’t tell us anything about ketogenic dietsUnderstanding the context behind nutrition research is critical. Misinterpreting observational data can easily lead to misleading headlines and unnecessary confusion about diet and health.💡If you want to learn more about the science behind ketogenic metabolic therapy, visit metabolicmind.org for research, resources, and expert insights.👍 If you found this helpful, like and subscribe for more evidence-based discussions about metabolic health and mental health.🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicineExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Circulating Ketone Bodies and Incident Cardiovascular Outcomes and Mortality: Insights From the UK Biobankhttps://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.125.042582Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Can you reverse fatty liver disease with a ketogenic diet?Fatty liver disease is now one of the fastest-growing liver conditions in the world, affecting roughly 30% of adults and an increasing number of children. And in many cases, it’s driven by metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance.In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Amy Goss (University of Alabama at Birmingham) and Dr. Karen Jerome-Zapadka (Trajectory Health Partners) about the growing epidemic of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and why carbohydrate restriction and ketogenic nutrition may be powerful tools for addressing it.In this interview, you’ll learn:What MASLD (formerly NAFLD) is and why it’s becoming so commonHow insulin resistance and excess carbohydrates contribute to fatty liverNew research showing how carbohydrate restriction can reduce liver fatWhy ketogenic and low-carb diets may improve liver metabolism beyond weight lossThe clinical experience of reversing fatty liver through metabolic therapyWhy lifestyle approaches often receive less attention than medicationsDr. Amy Goss and her team at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are currently conducting a large NIH-funded clinical trial investigating how carbohydrate restriction affects liver fat and insulin sensitivity in adolescents with fatty liver disease.At the same time, Dr. Karen Jerome-Zapadka is applying these metabolic principles in clinical practice at Trajectory Health Partners, helping patients reverse steatotic liver disease through carbohydrate reduction and comprehensive metabolic care. Together, their research and real-world clinical experience are helping advance a deeper understanding of how targeting metabolic dysfunction may transform the way fatty liver disease is treated.Curious about the safety of ketogenic therapy? Visit our Is Keto Safe topic page to see all of our top content on the topic: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/is-keto-safe/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MASLD #FattyLiverExpert Featured:Dr. Amy Miskimon Gosshttps://www.instagram.com/dr.amygoss/www.linkedin.comDr. Karen Jerome-ZapadkaTrajectoryhp.cominstagram.com/kzapadkahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-jerome-zapadka-md-dabom-mhp-581b22113/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

A new meta-analysis of 174 randomized controlled trials on “carbohydrate-restricted diets” found consistent benefits for body composition, blood pressure, inflammation, and more. But instead of highlighting the metabolic benefits, most of the headlines focused almost entirely on a small bump in LDL.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down why that reaction misses the point and how biases in nutrition reporting are holding back real progress in improving metabolic health.📌In this video, you’ll learn:How the authors classified “carbohydrate-restricted diets”The many health benefits associated with restricting carbohydratesWhat impact low carbohydrate diets had on LDL levelsWhether or not we should sound the alarm on LDL increasesThe double standard in how we talk about diet vs. diabetes drugs that may produce increases in LDLWhat matters more than LDL alone when assessing metabolic riskWhether you're a patient or a practitioner, it’s essential to look beyond sensational headlines and focus on the full body of evidence, especially when it comes to nutrition and cardiovascular risk. Clear and balanced conversations are more important than ever if we want to turn the tide on metabolic disease.🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.👉 Subscribe to Metabolic Mind to stay up-to-date on the latest in metabolic psychiatry, low-carb nutrition, and brain health: https://www.youtube.com/@metabolicmind.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicDiseaseExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Effects of carbohydrate-restricted diets and macronutrient replacements on cardiovascular health and body composition in adults: a meta-analysis of randomized trialshttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2025.09.012Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Are there real contraindications to a ketogenic diet? Yes, but they’re far rarer than many people think. So who shouldn’t do keto?In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the difference between absolute and relative contraindications to ketogenic therapy. While rare inborn metabolic disorders and certain acute illnesses are true absolute contraindications, most commonly cited concerns, including type 1 or type 2 diabetes, heart disease, serious mental illness, high cholesterol, and even pregnancy are listed as relative contraindications, which really means, “use caution and work with an experienced clinician.”Watch to learn who should avoid ketogenic therapy, who may benefit, and why clinical guidance makes all the difference.👉To learn more about the safety and efficacy of ketogenic therapy, check out our “Is Keto Safe?” topic page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/is-keto-safe/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicineExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Clinician Directorieshttps://www.metabolicmind.org/peers-families/get-help/Can a Keto Diet Cause Hypomania, and How Can It Be Avoided?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F11ZBvCjVNkFree CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Ketogenic therapy for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression is gaining attention, but how can it be safely implemented into clinical practice?A newly published expert consensus provides practical recommendations to help clinicians thoughtfully apply ketogenic metabolic therapy (KMT) for serious mental illnesses.In this in-depth conversation, Dr. Matt Bernstein and Dr. Georgia Ede, both members of the expert committee, discuss how this Delphi consensus was developed, what it includes, and how it can be responsibly integrated into psychiatric practice.In this interview, they discuss:What a Delphi process is and why it was usedThe results of the Delphi process (33 consensus statements and 10 clinical recommendations)Who may be appropriate candidates for KMTAbsolute and relative contraindicationsRecommended laboratory screening and monitoringHow long a trial should last before assessing efficacyHow clinicians can personalize implementation safelyImportantly, the authors emphasize that ketogenic metabolic therapy is not a replacement for standard psychiatric treatment. Rather, it may be considered alongside first-line therapies, particularly for individuals who have not responded adequately, cannot tolerate medications, or are seeking additional options.Reflecting on the value of this work, Dr. Bernstein shares:“I would have loved to have read this six years ago when I was starting to think about implementing these types of practices. It would have given me confidence to charge forward… I probably would have been further along now than I am.”With randomized controlled trials ongoing and more research expected in the coming years, this consensus provides a thoughtful, experience-informed framework for clinicians who are seeing growing interest in metabolic approaches.If you are a clinician, we encourage you to read the full publication.If you are a patient or family member, consider sharing this interview and the paper with your care team to support an informed discussion about whether metabolic strategies may be appropriate in your individual case.As always, clinical decisions should be made in partnership with qualified healthcare professionals.📚 Read the Paper: Published in Frontiers in Nutrition: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2026.1749406🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Georgia EdeHarvard-Trained Psychiatristhttps://www.diagnosisdiet.com/Dr. Matthew BernsteinCEO of Accord: https://accordmh.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-bernstein-5743338/Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Awareness and Best Practices in using Ketogenic Therapy to Treat Serious Mental Illness: A Modified Delphi Consensushttps://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2026.1749406Ketogenic Diets for Mental Health Clinician Training Coursehttps://www.diagnosisdiet.com/trainingFree CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

How can doctors, psychiatrists, and other health practitioners implement keto for serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression?In this short interview, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Georgia Ede to discuss a newly published Delphi consensus paper in Frontiers in Nutrition, authored by eight experienced clinicians and researchers to establish best practices for the use of ketogenic metabolic therapy (KMT) in serious mental illnesses.Using a structured expert consensus process, the group created 33 statements clarifying things like:What ketogenic metabolic therapy isWho may be appropriate candidates?Safety considerations and medical screeningMonitoring standards and clinical implementationHow KMT can be integrated alongside standard psychiatric careThese statements were then brought to a larger group of experienced clinicians to assess broader consensus, which resulted in all 33 statements reaching the consensus threshold.This paper is not a set of formal treatment guidelines. Instead, they represent an important first step in delivering practical, experience-informed guidance for clinicians who are seeing growing patient interest in metabolic approaches to serious mental illnessAs research continues to evolve, this consensus provides a thoughtful framework for psychiatrists, primary care clinicians, therapists, dietitians, and multidisciplinary teams who wish to incorporate ketogenic metabolic therapy into individualized treatment plans.If you are a clinician interested in learning more about metabolic approaches in psychiatry, we encourage you to explore the full publication.If you are a patient or family member, consider sharing this paper with your care team to start an informed discussion about whether metabolic strategies may be appropriate in your individual case.With the clinical evidence still accumulating and randomized controlled trials ongoing, we expect this clinical guidance to continue to evolve as more data and real word experience becomes available.📚 Read the Paper: Published in Frontiers in Nutrition: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2026.1749406#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicPsychiatry🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Georgia EdeHarvard-Trained Psychiatristhttps://www.diagnosisdiet.com/Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Awareness and Best Practices in using Ketogenic Therapy to Treat Serious Mental Illness: A Modified Delphi Consensushttps://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2026.1749406Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of infertility in women, but what if the real issue isn’t the ovaries?In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Steven Palter, reproductive endocrinologist and founder of Gold Coast IVF, about the powerful connection between PCOS, metabolic health, mental health, and fertility.For decades, PCOS has been treated symptom-by-symptom: birth control for irregular cycles, fertility drugs for ovulation, IVF for infertility. But Dr. Palter explains why this approach often misses the root cause: insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction.When you address the metabolic driver, everything can change.Ketogenic and low-carbohydrate dietary approaches are showing promise in improving insulin sensitivity, restoring ovulation, improving mood, and even supporting fertility, often before significant weight loss occurs. In many cases, women who were preparing for IVF are conceiving naturally after correcting their metabolic health.In this video, you’ll learn:Why PCOS is best understood as a metabolic disorderHow insulin resistance drives infertility, mood changes, and long-term health risksWhy traditional “eat less, move more” advice often failsHow ketogenic therapy may restore ovulation and improve fertilityThe connection between PCOS, depression, and binge eatingWhy GLP-1 medications aren’t the same as metabolic repairIf you or someone you know is struggling with PCOS, infertility, or unexplained hormonal symptoms, this episode offers a hopeful and science-based perspective on what’s possible when metabolic health becomes the priority.As always, consult your healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.💡Learn more about the safety and efficacy of ketogenic therapy on our “Is Keto Safe?” topic page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/is-keto-safe/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #PCOS #InsulinResistanceExpert Featured:Dr. Steven Palterhttps://www.instagram.com/stevenpaltermdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@stevenpaltermdhttps://www.youtube.com/@StevenPalterMDhttps://www.facebook.com/@stevenpaltermdResources Mentioned:https://www.goldcoastivf.com/pcosbaby.comFree CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

February is Heart Health Month, making it the perfect time to challenge common misconceptions about diet and cardiovascular health.One claim that always resurfaces? That ketogenic diets are bad for your heart. But when you take a closer look at the science, that assumption simply doesn’t hold up.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the real evidence behind ketogenic diets and cardiovascular risk, addressing:✅ How many “keto” studies don’t actually study true ketogenic diets✅ The truth about LDL cholesterol on keto (it doesn’t go up for everyone!)✅ Why triglycerides, HDL, insulin, and inflammation may matter more than LDL✅ How keto compares to DASH for blood pressure and metabolic health✅ Why saturated fat from real food behaves differently in the body✅ The critical difference between ultra-processed high-fat/high-carb diets and low-carb, whole-food ketogenic diets💡 Using the most up-to-date clinical evidence, Dr. Scher explains why ketosis can be a heart-supportive strategy, especially for those with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, insulin resistance, or poor metabolic health.If you’re interested in learning more about the safety of ketogenic therapy, check out our “Is Keto Safe” topic page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/is-keto-safe/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine #HeartHealthExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdFree CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Is there evidence that the ketogenic diet can cure schizophrenia?Recent comments from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked headlines…and controversy. While “cure” isn’t the right word, the conversation has brought much-needed attention to an emerging field: metabolic psychiatry.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down what the science actually shows about ketogenic metabolic therapy as a potential adjunctive treatment for serious mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder.You’ll learn about:What nutritional ketosis is and why brain energy matters for serious mental illnessHow psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder involve underlying metabolic dysfunctionEarly evidence on ketogenic therapy for serious mental illness from Stanford, Edinburgh, and The Ohio State UniversityHow consistent lived experiences aligned with emerging clinical data warrant serious scientific explorationWhat new research is on the wayKetogenic therapy is emerging as a serious metabolic strategy that may expand how we think about treating complex psychiatric conditions. We are now faced with the opportunity to study it rigorously, apply it thoughtfully, and ensure patients have access to every tool that could help.💡Learn more about the ongoing research in metabolic psychology on our Clinical Trials page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/science/clinical-trials/🏛Check out our condition specific topic pages to see our best resources on keto for serious mental illnesses:Keto for Schizophrenia: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/schizophrenia/Keto for Bipolar Disorder: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/bipolar/Keto for Depression: https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-for-depression/🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #SchizophreniaExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:A pilot study examining a ketogenic diet as an adjunct therapy in college students with major depressive disorderhttps://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-025-03544-8Ketogenic Diet Intervention on Metabolic and Psychiatric Health in Bipolar and Schizophrenia: A Pilot Trialhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115866A pilot study of a ketogenic diet in bipolar disorder: clinical, metabolic and magnetic resonance spectroscopy findingshttps://doi.org/10.1192/bjo.2024.841https://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/science/clinical-trials/https://www.metabolicmind.org/thinksmart/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

In this powerful interview, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Robin Engelhardt, a German researcher and PhD in psychology, who is launching a pilot study investigating ketogenic metabolic therapy as a treatment for PTSD and complex PTSD.Using his own personal experience of healing from PTSD through nutritional ketosis, Dr. Engelhardt is now launching a pilot study to explore whether this approach can help others. His pilot study will test feasibility, safety, and symptom response, paving the way for future randomized controlled trials.📘 What you’ll learn in this video:Why Dr. Engelhardt turned to a ketogenic diet for his PTSDWhat existing (though limited) research says about keto and traumaThe mechanisms that might explain why ketosis could benefit PTSD (e.g., improved brain energy, reduced inflammation)How this new feasibility study is structured, and what researchers hope to uncoverThe real-life challenges of implementing therapeutic ketosis for brain healthThis conversation is a rare look at the intersection of personal healing and scientific discovery, and a glimpse into the future of trauma treatment through metabolic approaches. Whether you're a clinician, researcher, or someone impacted by PTSD, this is an interview you won’t want to miss.👉 For more information on metabolic psychiatry and PTSD, check out our blog: Hope for PTSD: The Potential of Ketogenic Metabolic Therapies🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.#MetabolicMind #MetabolicPsychiatry #PTSD #KetogenicTherapyExpert Featured:Robin EngelhardtTo learn more about the study, contact Dr. Engelhardt’s team at [email protected] CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

Saturated fat is back in the headlines, and so is the confusion.The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans just dropped, and while there’s clear progress (more support for animal-based protein, low-carb options, and reduced sugar), they’ve kept the 10% cap on saturated fat. But does the science still support that limit, and does it make sense with the rest of the recommendations?In this episode, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the real story on saturated fat: where the guidelines get it right, where they fall short, and why context is everything when it comes to fat, food, and metabolic health.He covers:✅ The 5 main types of evidence on saturated fat✅ Why source and dietary context matter more than grams✅ What randomized trials, ketogenic studies & LDL data really show✅ The problem with lumping steak and pizza into one category✅ Why blanket limits may harm people trying to improve their metabolic healthThe saturated fat debate isn’t just about grams, it’s about individual metabolic health. When we zoom out and look at the full picture, it becomes clear that not all saturated fat is created equal. Understanding where it comes from and how it fits into an overall dietary pattern is key to moving the conversation forward.👉 Subscribe to Metabolic Mind for more conversations, research, and updates on metabolic health and metabolic psychiatry.#MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine #SaturatedFat🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.Expert Featured:Dr. Bret Scherhttps://x.com/bschermdhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bret-scher-08baaa102/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.