Study suggests benefits may be long lasting
Following a ketogenic diet for six months significantly reduced measures of body fat and fatigue, eased disease symptoms, and improved exercise capacity, cognition, and arm and hand dexterity in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), a study has shown. The research, Ketogenic diet in relapsing multiple sclerosis: Patient perceptions, post-trial diet adherence & outcomes, was published in the journal Clinical Nutrition.
Some benefits lasted for at least three months after the study ended, though several measures worsened – mainly due to difficulties in maintaining a strict ketogenic diet in the real world. 58% followed the diet after the trial ended, according to the data.
Following the 6-month KD intervention study, the majority of subjects elected to continue on KD, though many pursued a more liberal limit for carbohydrate restriction. Those who experienced a greater reduction in BMI or fatigue were more likely to continue with strict KD. The 6-month KD intervention induced persistent changes to dietary habits in the months following study completion.
