Investigating the Interaction between Ketosis, Cognitive Performance and ADHD Symptom Severity: A Task- Switch Paradigm Approach

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterised by deficits in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, with underlying neurobiological dysfunctions such as impaired brain energy metabolism and neurotransmitter imbalances. Current treatments often rely on stimulant medications, which -although managing the symptoms- present side effects and do not address the root causes of the disorder. The ketogenic diet, which induces a metabolic state of ketosis and shifts brain energy reliance from glucose to ketones, has shown promise in stabilising energy metabolism and enhancing cognitive function. This non-randomized pilot study explores the effects of a fourweek ketogenic diet on ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance, mainly focusing on task switching and incongruency costs in non-diagnosed adults. A total of 28 female participants, aged 35-45, were recruited from dietary programs and participated in two groups: a ketogenic diet group (n=19) and a paleo diet control...Show moreAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterised by deficits in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, with underlying neurobiological dysfunctions such as impaired brain energy metabolism and neurotransmitter imbalances. Current treatments often rely on stimulant medications, which -although managing the symptoms- present side effects and do not address the root causes of the disorder. The ketogenic diet, which induces a metabolic state of ketosis and shifts brain energy reliance from glucose to ketones, has shown promise in stabilising energy metabolism and enhancing cognitive function. This non-randomized pilot study explores the effects of a fourweek ketogenic diet on ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance, mainly focusing on task switching and incongruency costs in non-diagnosed adults. A total of 28 female participants, aged 35-45, were recruited from dietary programs and participated in two groups: a ketogenic diet group (n=19) and a paleo diet control group (n=9). ADHD symptoms were measured using the validated 18- item ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), and cognitive performance was assessed via a task-switching paradigm. The results showed significant within-subject reductions in ADHD symptoms in both groups, with no significant differences between the groups. Likewise, both groups improved on task switching, but no isolated significant effect of ketosis was observed on the task switching or incongruency costs. This research suggests that diet might improve ADHD-related symptoms and cognitive outcomes and highlight the potential of nutritional psychiatry, particularly in the context of ADHD. However, future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm whether ketosis offers specific advantages for managing ADHD.Show less

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Investigating the Interaction between Ketosis, Cognitive Performance and ADHD Symptom Severity: A Task- Switch Paradigm Approach