Keto diet may lower Alzheimer's risk in some people
A new 2025 study from the University of Missouri found that a ketogenic (high-fat, low-carb) diet might help keep brains healthier in people with the APOE4 gene, which raises Alzheimer's risk.
The diet swaps carbs for foods like fish, eggs, and nuts to fuel the brain with ketones instead of glucose.
Mice on keto had more good gut bacteria
Researchers noticed female mice with the APOE4 gene on a keto diet had more good gut bacteria and fewer harmful ones.
This was tied to better brain chemistry related to energy metabolism and neurotransmitter balance.
Male mice had some gut changes but didn't see much boost in brain health—suggesting the benefits may depend on sex.
Personalizing diets based on genes and gender could be key
The takeaway? Personalizing diets based on genes and gender could be key to lowering Alzheimer's risk.
Starting a keto-style diet early—before symptoms show up later in life—might help delay memory loss for those genetically at risk.