Ketones are an energy source your brain and other organs use during ketosis, where fat is used as your main fuel instead of glucose. However, emerging research suggests that ketones play a much larger role than just supporting energy metabolism. Let’s explore four additional functions of ketones.
1. Enhancing Brain Health
One of the most exciting areas of research on ketones (also known as ketone bodies) is their potential to support brain health. Studies suggest that ketones––particularly the most abundant type in the body, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB)––may improve cognitive function in people with mental health disorders and metabolic health conditions like type 2 diabetes. Growing evidence suggests that BHB may support brain health by increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a key protein involved in behavior, memory, and learning. Because of their positive impact on the brain and nervous system, ketogenic diets are increasingly being used to manage conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and mental health disorders. In fact, ketogenic diets have been used to treat epilepsy for more than 100 years and are currently considered standard of care in patients who do not respond to anti-seizure medications or cannot tolerate their side effects.
In addition, ketones provide precursors like carbon that are needed to synthesize cholesterol and fatty acids which are necessary for the membranes of developing nerve connections. Since the brain doesn’t absorb these lipids directly from the blood, it relies on ketones––derived from consumed or stored fats––as its preferred carbon source for lipid production. Cholesterol is essential for brain development and function, playing a vital role in processes like neuron axon and dendrite outgrowth and synapse formation. Because the blood-brain barrier blocks cholesterol from entering the central nervous system, the brain produces its own supply.
2. Reducing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. BHB has been shown to block an inflammatory pathway called the NLRP3 inflammasome, which is involved in producing proteins that trigger inflammation and control the immune response. Some animal and human studies suggest that by suppressing this pathway, BHB can help reduce systemic inflammation and improve conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and Alzheimer’s disease. Another contributor to chronic disease is oxidative stress, which occurs when excessive amounts of molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) build up in the body and overwhelm its ability to neutralize them. In several animal and in-vitro studies, BHB has been shown to reduce oxidative stress.
3. Supporting Mitochondrial Health
Mitochondria are small structures inside cells that are known as “powerhouses” because they produce energy for the cells to use. They also support various metabolic processes, including storing calcium, producing heat, and influencing autophagy, the process of clearing out portions of old or damaged organelles (cell components) and regenerating new ones. Early research suggests that BHB may improve mitochondrial function in several ways, such as producing energy more efficiently under conditions of high stress, reducing levels of ROS, and promoting the renewal of mitochondria by triggering mitophagy (autophagy of mitochondria).
4. Regulating Appetite and Satiety
Ketones, well known for providing an alternative energy source when glucose levels are low, may also influence appetite and satiety. While the precise mechanisms aren’t known, research shows that as BHB levels rise, there’s less of an increase in the hunger hormone ghrelin and a greater release of satiety hormones like cholecystokinin (CCK), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and peptide YY. The combination of better appetite control and greater satiety, even during weight loss, might make it easier to follow a ketogenic lifestyle compared to a conventional calorie-restricted diet.
Key Takeaway
As research continues to explore the diverse functions of ketones, early findings suggest they may be a powerful tool for not only optimizing energy metabolism but promoting overall health and well-being.
