Episoder

  • What questions matter most to people living with serious mental illness when it comes to metabolic interventions?

    Dr. Dina Farran and Dr. Toby Pillinger from King's College London set out to answer exactly that through a Priority Setting Partnership, an extensive collaborative process bringing together people with lived experience, family members, caregivers, clinicians, and researchers to identify the top research priorities in metabolic psychiatry.

    Their findings reveal a powerful shift in how patients and clinicians think about mental illness, and what the future of treatment may look like.

    In this conversation, you'll learn:

    What a Priority Setting Partnership is and why it matters for psychiatric researchHow over 450 participants and 1,400 submissions were narrowed down to a top 10 listWhy 8 of the top 10 priorities focused on mental health outcomes, not just physical healthWhy ketogenic diets ranked as the number one research priorityHow GLP-1 medications, exercise, gut health, and nutrient deficiencies entered the conversationWhy patients and caregivers may have a more integrated view of mental illness than the research fieldWhat this roadmap means for the future of metabolic psychiatry research and care

    This interview captures a meaningful turning point in how the field of metabolic psychiatry is beginning to align with what truly matters to the people it serves.

    Interested in learning more about metabolic psychiatry? Check out our blog: What is Metabolic Psychiatry?

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #MetabolicPsychiatry #KetogenicTherapy

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Dina Farran

    https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dina-farran-225028288

    Dr. Toby Pillinger

    https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/toby-pillingerhttp://uk.linkedin.com/in/toby-pillinger

    Resources Mentioned:

    PSP has been previously run by: https://www.jla.nihr.ac.uk/https://www.nih.gov/Where the manuscript will be published: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/home

    Experts mentioned:

    Danny Smith

    https://edwebprofiles.ed.ac.uk/profile/professor-daniel-j-smith

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • A recent study made headlines for claiming a ketogenic diet may worsen fatty liver disease and raise triglycerides. But when you take a closer look at the research, it’s clear that the conclusions are far less supported than the coverage suggests.

    To clear things up, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down what the study actually found, where the methodology falls short, and what the broader body of research has to say about ketogenic therapy and liver health.

    In this discussion, you'll learn:

    What the study examined and how the data was collectedWhy the lack of ketone measurement makes it impossible to confirm anyone was actually in ketosisHow reverse causality may explain the findings entirelyWhat baseline differences in BMI and adiposity reveal about the study populationWhy cross-sectional observational studies sit lower on the evidence hierarchy than RCTsWhat a meta-analysis of 62 randomized controlled trials shows about ketogenic diets and triglyceridesWhat a 12-week supervised intervention revealed about ketogenic therapy and fatty liver reductionWhy higher-quality controlled trial evidence should take precedence over headline-grabbing observational studies

    For clinicians, researchers, and anyone navigating conflicting headlines about ketogenic therapy, this conversation is a reminder that the quality of evidence matters as much as the findings themselves.

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicMind #FattyLiverDisease

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    Association between dietary patterns and lipid profile in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a retrospective cross-sectional study

    https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2026.1794910

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

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  • Is a plant-based diet the best for supporting metabolic health? Cardiologist Dr. Jaimela Dulaney spent years practicing plant-based nutrition before her own experience with insulin resistance, blood sugar swings, and endurance running led her to rethink what personalized nutrition can look like.

    In this episode, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Dulaney about what changed her perspective, both personally and professionally.

    They cover:

    How CGMs helped reveal unexpected blood sugar patternsWhy insulin resistance can show up even in active, normal-weight individualsHow Dr. Dulaney thinks about LDL cholesterol in the context of metabolic healthWhy low-carb and ketogenic diets may help some people improve energy, recovery, and blood sugar stabilityWhy there may not be one “best diet” for every patient

    This conversation highlights the importance of listening to patients, tracking meaningful lab trends, and staying open to new evidence when personal experience and clinical outcomes begin to tell a different story.

    👉 Interested in learning more about metabolic health, cholesterol, and heart disease? Check out our article: Beyond LDL: New Insights into Metabolic Health and Heart Disease.

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #HeartDisease

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Jaimela Dulaney

    https://doctordulaney.com/https://www.youtube.com/@jjd862

    Expert Mentioned:

    Andrew Koutnik

    https://www.instagram.com/andrewkoutnikphd/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBoAR4gzVC5Y0e5raQLPkQhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewkoutnikphd111/

    Dr. Noakes

    https://register.cpso.on.ca/physician-info/?cpsonum=50902https://surgery.utoronto.ca/faculty/jeffrey-noakes

    Resources Mentioned:

    Additional resources

    Dr. Noakes book: Lore of Nutrition: Challenging Conventional Dietary BeliefsDr. Esselstyn - https://www.dresselstyn.com/site/Dean Ornish: Ornish program — http://ornish.com/Nina Teicholz Book: The Big Fat Surprise

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Metabolic health may be the foundation of a healthy brain, and a growing community of researchers, clinicians, and educators is working to bring that message into mainstream medicine.

    In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher talks with Dr. Dom D'Agostino at the Citizen Science Initiative (CoSci) conference to discuss everything from the recent screening of The Cholesterol Code documentary to the rise of N-of-1 research, the future of metabolic psychiatry, and the urgent need for nutrition education in medical schools.

    In this conversation, you'll learn:

    Dr. D'Agostino’s reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentary and what stood out mostHow N-of-1 citizen science is reshaping the way we think about metabolic healthWhy metabolic health may be a stronger predictor of cardiovascular outcomes than LDL aloneHow nutrition education made its way into the USF College of Medicine curriculumWhat the latest research is revealing about ketogenic metabolic therapy and cancer, brain health, and immune functionWhy metabolic psychiatry is one of the most exciting emerging fields in medicineHow exogenous ketones and ketogenic diets fit into clinical practice and ongoing research

    This discussion offers a thoughtful look at where metabolic medicine is headed and why prioritizing whole-body health is becoming central to supporting the brain.

    🎥 Watch The Cholesterol Code documentary and join the conversation shaping the future of metabolic health: amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0GS8ZFCYN/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Dominic D’Agostino

    https://drdominicdagostino.com/https://www.instagram.com/dominic.dagostino.kt/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/dominic.dagostino.1/http://linkedin.com/in/dominic-d-agostino-156014bhttps://x.com/DominicDAgosti2?lang=en

    Resources Mentioned:

    https://www.metabolicinitiative.com/https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL27U85_g28NlX2RAWCiz6us2SW_9OW4VA

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • New results from first-of-its-kind randomized controlled trial on a ketogenic diet for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder with psychosis offer important insights into metabolic psychiatry and mental health treatment.

    In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Julie Milder to walk through the study results, recently published in Schizophrenia Bulletin. As the first RCT in psychosis-spectrum conditions to publish in the peer-reviewed literature, it’s an important step toward understanding how metabolic interventions may play a role in serious mental illness.

    Key insights from the study:

    In the 1-month randomized portion of the trial, the ketogenic group showed significant improvements in metabolic health markers compared to diet-as-usualPsychiatric symptoms trended toward improvement, but were not statistically significant at 1 monthParticipants who opted into the ketogenic extension part of the study (4 total months of keto), saw improvements in depression, cognition, and positive and negative symptoms.

    In this video, Dr. Milder also breaks down important additional context about the limitations of the study, including the length of the randomized portion of the trial and the variance in dietary support between the two diet groups.

    This study adds to growing evidence linking metabolic health and psychiatric conditions and explores whether ketogenic therapy may play a role in addressing underlying mechanisms.

    👉 Want to learn more about the trial? Visit our study page: https://www.metabolicmind.org/trials/featured-post/peer-reviewed-results-of-first-ever-randomized-controlled-trial-of-ketogenic-diet-in-schizophrenia-spectrum-and-bipolar-i-disorder/

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Julie Milder

    Baszucki Group Director of Neurosciencehttp://linkedin.com/in/juliemilder

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    Metabolic improvements with a ketogenic diet correlate with symptom improvement in psychosis: A randomized controlled trial

    https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbag082

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • New evidence from the first-ever RCT shows ketogenic therapy can rapidly improve metabolic health in schizophrenia-spectrum and bipolar I disorders, and shows early signals of psychiatric improvement.

    In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down this newly published study led by Dr. Judith Ford at UCSF: the first randomized controlled trial with peer-reviewed results investigating ketogenic therapy in people with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders and bipolar-1 disorder with psychotic features.

    You’ll learn:

    How the study was designed (a 1-month randomized phase plus an optional 3-4 month single-arm extension)What happened in the first 30 days (clear improvements in metabolic markers; psychiatric outcomes showed trends that did not reach statistical significance in the randomized portion)What improved over longer follow-up in the extension phase (encouraging changes in metabolic health, cognition, and psychiatric measures)Why this matters for patients and families today, and what future, longer controlled trials need to confirm

    Published in Schizophrenia Bulletin and funded by the NIMH and Baszucki Group, this study adds to the growing literature on the potential benefit of ketogenic therapy for psychiatric disorders.

    These results indicate the need for larger, extended randomized controlled trials to test the safety and efficacy of ketogenic therapy in patients living with serious mental illness.

    👉 Learn more about the study by visiting our website: https://www.metabolicmind.org/trials/featured-post/peer-reviewed-results-of-first-ever-randomized-controlled-trial-of-ketogenic-diet-in-schizophrenia-spectrum-and-bipolar-i-disorder/

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher, MD, FACC

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    Metabolic improvements with a ketogenic diet correlate with symptom improvement in psychosis: A randomized controlled trial

    https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbag082

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Why are seed oils suddenly everywhere in nutrition debates? What is anhedonia? Is the dawn phenomenon something to worry about? And how can you tell the difference between nutritional ketosis and ketoacidosis?

    In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher and producer Erica Gerard answer some of the most common questions from our community about ketogenic therapy, mental health, metabolism, and nutrition science.

    Topics discussed include:

    Why seed oils have become such a controversial topic and what the evidence actually showsWhether seed oils deserve their negative reputationWhat anhedonia is and why it can be one of the most challenging symptoms in mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophreniaEmerging research on ketogenic therapy and improvements in anhedoniaWhy debates between plant-based and ketogenic diets often miss the bigger pictureThe limitations of observational nutrition researchWhy there may not be one “best” diet for everyoneWhat the dawn phenomenon is and why it may mean different things for people eating high-carb versus ketogenic dietsThe difference between nutritional ketosis and diabetic ketoacidosisWhether there is a specific “therapeutic” ketone level for brain health and mental health interventions

    Throughout the conversation, Dr. Scher emphasizes an important theme: context matters. The same biomarker, food, or dietary approach can have very different implications depending on an individual’s health status, goals, and metabolic health.

    Whether you're exploring ketogenic therapy for mental health, trying to better understand ketone levels, or simply looking for evidence-based answers to common nutrition questions, this episode offers practical insights and helpful nuance.

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/team/bret-scher-md/https://www.instagram.com/drscher858/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bret-scher-08baaa102/

    Erica Gerard

    Resources Mentioned:

    Papers

    Re-evaluated Minnesota Coronary Experiment: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27071971/Anhedonia improviments mentioned: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41475571/https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2844388#google_vignette

    Additional resources

    Dawn Phenomenon by Dr. Bret Scher: https://www.dietdoctor.com/low-carb/the-dawn-effect

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • A newly published study called NATURE-CT is generating significant attention in the cardiovascular and ketogenic communities, but some of the conclusions being drawn online don't hold up to scientific scrutiny. Dr. Bret Scher walks through what the study actually shows, what it doesn't, and why comparisons being made to ketogenic therapy are scientifically misleading.

    In this discussion, you'll learn:

    What the NATURE-CT study examined and what its findings mean for coronary plaque progressionWhy the average LDL of 111 mg/dL still showed substantial plaque progressionWhat this data may suggest about looking beyond LDL as the sole driver of coronary diseaseWhy comparisons being made between NATURE-CT and KETO-CTA are scientifically flawedWhy the original KETO-CTA manuscript was retracted and what that means for current claimsHow baseline coronary artery calcium scores influence valid scientific comparisonsWhy findings in lean mass hyper-responders cannot be extrapolated to all forms of ketogenic therapyHow metabolic health, not just LDL, may be a critical factor in understanding cardiovascular risk

    This conversation underscores the importance of evaluating studies on their actual design and findings, rather than the conclusions being layered on top of them. For clinicians, researchers, and anyone navigating the cardiovascular and ketogenic conversation, the precision of the science matters.

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #CardiovascularHealth

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    NATURal history of coronary PlaquE on cardiac computed tomography in individuals without MACE or lipid-lowering therapy: NATURE-CTstudy

    https://www.journalofcardiovascularct.com/article/S1934-5925(26)00097-3/fulltext

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • What should you eat on keto? A ketogenic diet shifts your body from burning carbs to burning fat and ketones, and it can be a powerful tool for supporting metabolic health as well as mental health. But knowing what to eat, what to avoid, and how to get started makes all the difference.

    Here, Dr. Bret Scher walks you through the essentials:

    The best proteins, fats, and low-carb vegetables for ketoFoods that can kick you out of ketosisA full sample day of meals with net carb countsSmart snack options and lifestyle factors that affect ketosis

    Whether you're new to a ketogenic diet or exploring it as part of a broader ketogenic therapy plan, the right foundation can make a significant difference in outcomes.

    Want to dive deeper into the specifics of a high-quality ketogenic diet? Check out our blog to learn more: Understanding the Well-Formulated Ketogenic Diet

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • David Baszucki - founder and CEO of Roblox - sits down with his son Matthew for the first time on a podcast together. They walk through Matthew's five-year journey with severe, treatment-resistant bipolar I disorder: the first manic episode in 2016, multiple hospitalisations, the dozens of medications, the 2017 incident in Los Angeles when David flew down on a rescue mission to find Matt homeless on the streets, and the discovery by Matthew’s mother Jan of ketogenic therapy that sent Matt's symptoms into remission.

    David and Matthew talk about how their family journey led to the establishment of the rapidly growing field of metabolic psychiatry their family now funds, and the daily metabolic practices both father and son use today.

    👉 Learn more about Matthew Baszucki and his incredible journey with metabolic psychiatry on his THINK+SMART page: metabolicmind.org/thinksmart/explore-strategies/matt-baszucki/

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #MetabolicPsychiatry #BipolarDisorder

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Iain Campbell

    https://x.com/IainCampbellPhD?lang=enhttps://www.youtube.com/@ketobipolar

    Matthew Baszucki

    https://www.youtube.com/@matthewbaszuckihttps://www.metabolicmind.org/thinksmart/explore-strategies/matt-baszucki/https://www.instagram.com/matthewbaszucki/

    David Baszucki

    https://x.com/DavidBaszucki

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • The Cholesterol Code documentary is challenging long-held assumptions about LDL cholesterol, ketogenic diets, and what really matters for cardiovascular risk.

    In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Eric Westman, internist and low-carb researcher, to discuss the film's impact and what it could mean for the future of clinical practice.

    From Dave Feldman's citizen science journey to the growing body of evidence on type 2 diabetes reversal, this discussion explores why the conversation around cholesterol is finally starting to shift.

    You'll learn:

    What stood out most about The Cholesterol Code documentaryWhy elevated LDL on a ketogenic diet may not carry the risk many assumeHow citizen science is reshaping nutrition and metabolic health researchWhy type 2 diabetes reversal deserves far more clinical attention than it getsHow GLP-1 medications and lifestyle interventions can work together responsiblyWhy the future of medicine depends on diet-focused research, not just drug trials

    For physicians, patients, and anyone interested in metabolic health, this conversation captures a pivotal moment in how the medical community is beginning to rethink cardiovascular risk, ketogenic therapy, and the power of lifestyle change.

    🎥 Watch The Cholesterol Code documentary and join the conversation shaping the future of metabolic health: amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0GS8ZFCYN/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine #CholesterolCode

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Eric Westman

    https://www.youtube.com/adaptyourlifehttps://adaptyourlifeacademy.com/https://www.instagram.com/drericwestman/https://x.com/drericwestman?lang=en

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Can ketogenic therapy help atrial fibrillation? What should you make of the KETO-CTA study? And do higher ketones always mean better results?

    In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher answers audience questions about cardiovascular health, ketosis, ketone levels, and how to personalize a ketogenic approach based on your goals and metabolic health. From AFib concerns to cholesterol controversies and troubleshooting low ketone readings, this episode tackles some of the most common questions in the keto community.

    In this episode, we cover:

    Ketogenic therapy and atrial fibrillation (AFib)The latest update on the KETO-CTA studyLDL cholesterol, plaque, and cardiovascular riskWhy ketone levels don't tell the whole storyRaising ketones without sacrificing energy or muscleCarbohydrate intake and metabolic flexibilityFasting, protein, and thyroid considerationsMCT oil, exogenous ketones, and other strategies to increase ketosis

    One of the biggest takeaways: context matters. Whether you're evaluating cholesterol, ketone levels, or cardiovascular risk, there is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer. Understanding your goals, metabolic health, and individual response is often more important than chasing a specific number.

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #CardiovascularHealth

    Expert Featured:

    Bret Scher

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/team/bret-scher-md/https://www.instagram.com/drscher858/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bret-scher-08baaa102/

    Experts Mentioned:

    Dave Feldman

    https://www.instagram.com/realdavefeldman/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-feldman/

    Resources Mentioned:

    Papers

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40192608/ (REDACTED)

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits:

    https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Are eggs bad for you because they may raise cholesterol?

    It's one of the most common nutrition questions in cardiology, and one of the most misunderstood. The reality is that raising cholesterol and harming your health aren't always the same thing, and when it comes to eggs, the data tells a much more nuanced and reassuring story than most people have been led to believe.

    In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher walks through the science of eggs, cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk, cutting through decades of nutritional confusion to help you understand what it actually means for your individual dietary choices.

    You'll learn:

    Why the original "eggs cause heart disease" logic doesn't hold up under scientific scrutinyWhat happens to LDL and HDL when most people eat whole eggsWho the "egg hyper responders" are and what genetics has to do with itWhy hazard ratios in observational egg studies are often clinically unhelpfulWhat the American Heart Association now says about eggs and cardiovascular riskWhy eggs are one of the most nutrient dense whole foods availableHow to think about egg quality, quantity, and individual response

    The takeaway: eggs can be part of a healthy whole foods dietary pattern for most people. Context, metabolic health, and the totality of your diet often matter far more than any single food.

    💡 Learn more about markers for heart health (beyond LDL), on our blog: Beyond LDL: Exploring Calcium Scores and CTAs for Better Cardiac Insights

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #HeartHealth #KetogenicTherapy

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    Dietary Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association

    https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000743

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Can ketogenic therapy challenge mainstream thinking on cholesterol, diabetes, and evidence-based medicine? At the CoSci conference, Dr. Ken Berry shares his reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentary and explains why more clinicians are questioning long-standing assumptions about metabolic health, LDL cholesterol, and the treatment of chronic disease.

    In this conversation, Dr. Berry discusses the growing tension between clinical guidelines, pharmaceutical influence, and real-world patient outcomes, while making the case for curiosity, individualized care, and the power of “citizen science” in medicine.

    In this episode, we cover:

    Dr. Ken Berry’s reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentaryWhy ketogenic therapy challenges conventional risk-benefit analysisThe role of anecdotal evidence and N=1 experimentationPharmaceutical influence on clinical guidelinesWhy many diabetes patients feel stuck despite following standard adviceThe launch of the American Diabetes SocietyType 2 diabetes remission and low-carbohydrate nutritionWhy doctors need to stay curious and continue learning

    One of the biggest themes throughout this conversation is that medicine works best when clinicians and patients stay open-minded, ask better questions, and focus on addressing root causes as opposed to just managing symptoms or lab numbers.

    👉 Interested in watching The Cholesterol Code documentary? Available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0GS8ZFCYN/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #AmericanDiabetesSociety

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Ken Berry

    americandiabetessociety.orghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIma2WOQs1Mz2AuOt6wRSUwhttps://www.instagram.com/kendberry.md/?hl=enhttps://x.com/KenDBerryMD?lang=en

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Protein recommendations have changed and not everyone is happy about it. Here's what the new federal protein guidelines actually mean for your health, and why the pushback is missing the point.

    A recent PBS article argued that doubling the current protein guidelines would push people toward junk food and processed products. But as a cardiologist, Dr. Bret Scher explains why that concern, while understandable, is misplaced. The real issue isn't the target. It's the message around how to hit it.

    In this discussion, you'll learn:

    Why the original 0.8g/kg recommendation was never designed for optimal metabolic healthWhat research shows about protein intake in the range of 1.2 to 1.6g/kgHow higher protein supports satiety, body composition, and glucose controlWhy certain groups like teenagers, athletes, and older adults need even moreHow plant vs. animal protein sources differ in bioavailability and practicalityWhy whole food sources like eggs, fish, meat, and legumes are the answer, not protein bars and packaged products

    Getting more protein doesn't mean reaching for a bar or a wrapper. It means eating real food that your body knows how to use. The old 0.8g recommendation was designed to prevent decline, not to support metabolic thriving.

    💡 Curious what a well-formulated ketogenic diet looks like? Check out our blog: Understanding the Well-Formulated Ketogenic Diet

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #FoodAsMedicine #Protein

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • A new Alzheimer’s study linked omega-3 fish oil (EPA & DHA) supplement use to faster cognitive decline, but the real story is far more nuanced than the headlines suggest.

    In this discussion, cardiologist Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the study and explains why the quality, freshness, and source of omega-3s may matter more than most people realize.

    The study used data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and found that omega-3 supplement users experienced greater cognitive decline over five years compared to non-users. But the details matter:

    The study did not assess supplement quality, oxidation, dosage, or dietary habitsOxidized fish oil may behave very differently from high-quality DHA and EPAWhole food omega-3 sources like salmon, sardines, and mackerel consistently show different outcomes in researchLifestyle factors like sleep, exercise, stress, and metabolic health remain critical for brain health

    One of the biggest takeaways: supplements are not interchangeable with whole foods. And no supplement can replace the foundation of metabolic health, including nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and social connection.

    👉 Emerging research shows that ketogenic therapy may slow cognitive decline in those with Alzheimer's disease. Explore what a balanced ketogenic diet looks like on our blog: Understanding the Well-Formulated Ketogenic Diet

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #AlzheimersDisease

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    The association between omega-3 supplementation and cognitive decline in older adults

    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tjpad.2026.100569

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • After losing his brother to suicide despite being in psychiatric care, entrepreneur Kristian Ranta began asking difficult questions: Why do so many people struggle despite treatment? What if mental health care is overlooking key drivers of recovery?

    In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Kristian Ranta, founder of Meru Health, to explore a model that approaches mental health care differently by combining psychiatry, therapy, nutrition, metabolic health, sleep, exercise, coaching, and data-driven care.

    They discuss:

    Why nutrition and metabolic health are often overlooked in psychiatryThe connection between physical and mental healthWhy “treatment-resistant” may not tell the whole storyHow comprehensive lab testing can uncover hidden contributors to symptomsThe role of ketogenic and low-carbohydrate interventions in mental health careWearables, biofeedback, and personalized treatment approachesOutcome-based care and the future of psychiatric treatmentHow virtual care can expand access to underserved communities

    This conversation highlights a growing movement toward whole-person mental health care, one that seeks to go beyond symptoms and understand the underlying factors that may be contributing to them.

    👉 Learn more about the potential benefits of metabolic therapies for depression on our Depression Topic Page: metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-for-depression/

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #Depression

    Expert Featured:

    Kristian Ranta

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristian-ranta/

    Resources Mentioned:

    https://www.meruhealth.com/

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric illness, yet effective biological treatments remain limited. For many people living with the condition, even after successful weight normalization, persistent psychological symptoms, including obsessive thoughts about food, shape, and weight, continue to drive relapse.

    In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Guido Frank, Professor of Psychiatry at UC San Diego with over 25 years of experience in eating disorder treatment, to discuss results from the first-ever clinical trial of ketogenic therapy in anorexia nervosa.

    This 14-week supervised feasibility trial enrolled 22 individuals with weight-normalized anorexia nervosa. Among the 18 study completers:

    ✅ 72% scored in the recovered range on eating disorder assessments, no longer meeting the criteria for an anorexia nervosa diagnosis

    ✅ 100% of study completers saw improvements in depression symptoms, with 72% scoring within the normal range.

    ✅ Participants did not experience significant weight change throughout the study

    In this conversation, Dr. Frank also discusses:

    What led a self-described skeptic to investigate ketogenic therapy for anorexia nervosaHow the study was structured, who it enrolled, and what the weekly supervision looked likeWhat participants experienced as symptoms improved, including reports of mental clarity and reliefHow weight remained stable throughout the ketogenic interventionThe pushback from colleagues and how to engage with the skepticismWhat comes next, including ongoing brain imaging research and plans for a randomized controlled trialEarly observations in bulimia nervosa and what they may suggest about metabolic factors in eating disorders

    This trial demonstrated that ketogenic therapy is well tolerated by this population. Larger, controlled studies are needed to better evaluate efficacy.

    This intervention was conducted under close supervision by a licensed eating disorder specialist, with weekly check-ins, ketone monitoring, and regular psychiatric assessments. Anyone interested in exploring this approach should do so under close medical supervision and in partnership with their care team. If you or someone you care for is living with anorexia nervosa, please speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes.

    👉 Want to learn more about this study? Visit the Study Page on our website: https://www.metabolicmind.org/trials/featured-post/ketogenic-therapy-feasibility-trial-in-anorexia-nervosa-shows-promise-in-weight-normalized-adults/

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Guido Frank

    linkedin.com/in/guido-k-w-frank-b7b42172https://profiles.ucsd.edu/guido.frank

    Resources Mentioned:

    Study

    DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1038/s43856-026-01644-0

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • A new study demonstrates that ketogenic therapy could be an option for individuals living with weight-normalized anorexia nervosa.

    One of the primary goals of anorexia nervosa treatment is restoring weight, and while this is an important milestone, many individuals continue to experience psychological symptoms.

    Dr. Guido Frank, Professor of Psychiatry at UC San Diego, has spent more than 25 years researching and treating eating disorders. For much of his career, the lack of effective biological treatments for anorexia nervosa has been one of his greatest frustrations.

    That changed when he began investigating ketogenic therapy.

    In this video, Dr. Frank shares results from the first-ever clinical trial of ketogenic therapy in anorexia nervosa, published in Communications Medicine.

    This 14-week outpatient feasibility trial enrolled adults living with weight-normalized anorexia nervosa who, despite weight restoration, continued to struggle with persistent eating disorder symptoms.

    Of the 22 individuals enrolled in the study, 82% completed the trial. Among those who completed, 40% experienced mild early side effects, all of which resolved by study end, providing early evidence that ketogenic therapy may be a well-tolerated option in this weight-normalized population.

    Among the study completers:

    ✅ 72% no longer met the criteria for an anorexia nervosa diagnosis

    ✅ All showed improvement in depression scores, with 72% reaching the normal range

    ✅ Participants also showed improvements in self-esteem, anxiety, and clinical impairment

    One of the most common concerns about keto in this population is whether it will cause weight loss.

    For this reason, weight was closely monitored and participants did not experience significant weight change during the study. These findings suggest that under clinical supervision, ketogenic therapy can be implemented in a way that supports weight maintenance, while also delivering far-reaching effects on brain function and psychiatric symptoms.

    These results are encouraging early evidence of feasibility, but larger, controlled studies are needed to further evaluate efficacy.

    The outcomes should not be generalized to severely underweight patients, who were not included in this trial. Dr. Frank's team is now actively studying whether ketogenic therapy can be applied at lower weights.

    This intervention was conducted under close supervision by a licensed eating disorder specialist, with weekly check-ins, ketone monitoring, and regular psychiatric assessments. Anyone interested in exploring this approach should only do so under close medical supervision and in partnership with their care team. If you or someone you care for is living with anorexia nervosa, please speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes.

    👉 Learn more about this study: https://www.metabolicmind.org/trials/featured-post/ketogenic-therapy-feasibility-trial-in-anorexia-nervosa-shows-promise-in-weight-normalized-adults/

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Guido Frank

    https://x.com/GuidoFrank?s=20linkedin.com/in/guido-k-w-frank-b7b42172https://profiles.ucsd.edu/guido.frank

    Resources Mentioned:

    Study:

    DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1038/s43856-026-01644-0

    UC San Diego Website:

    https://clinicaltrials.ucsd.edu/ketogenic-diet

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.

  • Lower triglycerides, lower remnant cholesterol, lower ApoB. Zero change in coronary artery plaque. A new clinical trial is forcing a bigger conversation about how we treat cardiovascular disease.

    The drug was Olezarsen, an APOC3 inhibitor. The blood work looked impressive. The heart scans did not. So why would lowering well-established cardiovascular risk factors fail to move the needle on plaque? Dr. Bret Scher argues there's a critical difference between what we want to fix and how we go about fixing it. Lowering a number with a drug is not the same as addressing the underlying metabolic dysfunction that caused that number to be high in the first place.

    In this video, you'll learn:

    What the Olezarsen trial actually showed and why the results matterWhy elevated triglycerides often signal deeper metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistanceHow this same drug-first thinking plays out in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and weight managementWhy narrowing our focus to "fix the number" can keep us from healing the whole systemHow metabolic medicine reframes the conversation around root causes

    This isn't an argument against medication. Responsible drug use has an important place in patient care. But the best outcomes come when we ask why a number is abnormal in the first place and what combination of lifestyle changes and targeted treatments will actually address it.

    👉 Want to stay up to date with the latest research on metabolic health and metabolic psychiatry? Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed:

    metabolicmind.org/about-us/newsletter/

    🔎 Have questions about how to apply metabolic therapies effectively? Submit them at metabolicmind.org/questions to be featured in a future Metabolic Mailbag episode.

    #MetabolicMind #KetogenicTherapy #CardiovascularDisease

    Expert Featured:

    Dr. Bret Scher

    Baszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermd

    Resources Mentioned:

    Effect of APOC3 Inhibition With Olezarsen on Coronary Atherosclerosis: Essence-TIMI 73b Imaging Study

    https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.126.080012

    Free CME Clinician Trainings:

    Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Mariela Glandt, Dr. Deanna Kelly, Dr. Julie Milder, Dr. Zoltan Sarnyai, and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.

    Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-yt

    Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.

    Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/

    About us:

    Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.

    Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.