Five years after COVID-19 became a public health emergency, the spotlight seems to be increasingly falling on "long COVID," a condition marked by lingering symptoms that persist well beyond the acute phase of the infection. Among these, cognitive dysfunction - commonly referred to as "brain fog" - is one of the most debilitating. There seems to be potential for ketogenic nutrition in addressing the cognitive challenges of long COVID. Understanding Long

What is Intestinal Permeability? Intestinal permeability, often referred to as "leaky gut," describes a condition where the integrity of the intestinal lining is compromised. The gut epithelium forms a critical barrier that regulates the passage of nutrients, water, and electrolytes while preventing the entry of pathogens, toxins, and undigested food particles into the bloodstream. This barrier is maintained by tight junction proteins such as occludin, claudins, and zonula occludens. When these

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington’s disease (HD) are often viewed through the prism of distinct symptoms and pathology. However, a recent review by Phillips and Picard challenges this perspective, introducing the concept of these conditions as "metabolic icebergs”. This framework emphasizes the underlying role of mitochondrial dysfunction as a unifying factor in their development and progression. The Metabolic Iceberg Model The

In their recent publication, Anderson et al. explore the ketogenic diet (KD) as a potential transdiagnostic intervention for neuropsychiatric disorders, presenting compelling evidence for its role in addressing shared pathophysiological mechanisms. The review delves into the science behind the diet's impact on mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer’s, while also discussing clinical outcomes and the importance of sustained ketone levels. Overview of the Article Neuropsychiatric disorders remain a

The Ketogenic Diet (KD), known for its therapeutic potential in weight management, neurological health, and chronic diseases, has been a topic of debate regarding its impact on gut health. Critics often express concerns that the low-fibre, high-fat nature of the diet may harm the microbiome. However, emerging research reveals a more nuanced picture, highlighting both benefits and considerations. This article explores how KD influences the gut microbiome and addresses common

Exciting News! I’m embarking on Georgia Ede’s course: Ketogenic Diet for Mental Health, and I’m so excited to delve deeper into the potentially transformative potential of this approach. I did an Advanced Ketogenic Nutrition course several years ago but this particular focus on mental health is what really appeals to me. A recent pilot study (May 2024) published in Psychiatry Research explored the effects of a ketogenic diet on individuals with

Metabolic flexibility refers to the body's ability to adapt its use of energy sources - primarily fats and carbohydrates - in response to changes in metabolic demand, such as fasting, eating, or exercising. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining energy balance and overall metabolic health. The concept of metabolic flexibility is gaining attention not just among scientists but also in the health and wellness community as it relates to conditions

I absolutely love the work that I do with gut health. Far beyond its role in digestion, the gut is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that impacts nearly every aspect of our well-being, from immunity to brain function. When we think of peri-menopause and menopause, we don’t usually think of the gut, but we should because emerging research has identified the gut microbiome as a significant player in these hormonal

Peri-menopause, menopause and post-menopause bring a host of challenges for women, including increased risks of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. These risks are compounded by the hormonal changes that occur during this period, which can lead to both physical and cognitive health issues. Oestrogen, in particular, plays a critical role in brain function, including supporting neurotransmitter activity, promoting blood flow to the brain, and protecting neurons from damage. Interestingly, oestrogen’s