Ketogenic Diet
Nutrition & Dietary Protocols

Ketogenic Diet

A very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that shifts metabolism to produce ketone bodies for fuel. Originally developed for epilepsy, now researched for brain health, metabolic syndrome, cancer adjunct therapy, and weight management.

150+ Studies180+ ReportsStrongDietary ProtocolAvailable in UAE
72
Kamura ScoreStrong
72/100
Strong
Strong
Evidence
1-2 weeks for ketosis; 4-8 weeks for full adaptation
Time to Effect
Variable (food costs)
Est. Cost
Available
UAE Access
Last reviewed: March 2025
75
Research
78
Community
62
Safety
70
Access
78
Value

How Ketogenic Diet Works

Severe carbohydrate restriction depletes liver glycogen, forcing the liver to convert fatty acids into ketone bodies (BHB, AcAc, acetone). Ketones serve as an efficient alternative fuel for the brain and muscles, while reducing insulin levels and activating AMPK/autophagy pathways.

📊 Evidence by Outcome

Weight & Fat LossA

Effective for rapid weight loss in the short-to-medium term. Meta-analyses show greater weight loss than low-fat diets at 6 months; difference narrows at 12 months.

40 studies • Consistency: High • Effect: Large (short-term)

Epilepsy ControlA

The original medical application. 50%+ seizure reduction in ~50% of drug-resistant epilepsy patients.

30 studies • Consistency: High • Effect: Large

Brain Health & NeuroprotectionB

Ketones provide an alternative brain fuel. Emerging evidence for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and traumatic brain injury.

15 studies • Consistency: Moderate • Effect: Moderate

📄

Key Research

Peer-Reviewed Evidence • 1 Citations

[1]

Dietary ketosis enhances memory in mild cognitive impairment

Krikorian R et al.Neurobiology of Aging2012PMID: 21130529

Key Finding: 6-week very low-carb diet improved verbal memory performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment, correlated with ketone levels.

View on PubMed

Citations sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and peer-reviewed journals. Study findings are summarized for accessibility. Always consult the original publication for full methodology and results.

📋 Protocol Snapshot

Standard Keto
<20-50g carbs/day, 70-80% fat, 15-20% protein
Strict carb restriction. Focus on healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts). Monitor ketones via blood meter.
Cyclical Keto
5 days keto, 2 days higher carb
More sustainable long-term. Keto weekdays, moderate carbs on weekends. Supports exercise performance.

Protocols are for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment protocol.

Cost Guide

Variable (food costs)

Estimated UAE pricing. Costs vary by provider, dosage, and treatment plan.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Kamura Scores reflect a combination of research evidence, community data, and other factors — they are not clinical recommendations. Research citations are provided for reference; always consult the original publications for complete study details. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Individual results may vary.