Low‑carb versus ketogenic diets explained

What’s the difference between a low-carb diet and a ketogenic diet, especially when it comes to mental health?

In this premiere Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher (Medical Director at Metabolic Mind) and Harvard trained psychiatrist Dr. Georgia Ede answer some of the most common questions they receive about ketogenic diets specifically for mental illness.

Whether you're new to ketogenic therapy or have been experimenting for years, this discussion offers valuable clarity on concepts that often cause confusion, even among clinicians.

💡 Topics covered include:

• The difference between low-carb and ketogenic diets for mental health
• Why being “in ketosis” matters more than just eating low carb
• How high ketones may need to be for mood and psychiatric benefit
• When (and how often) to test ketone levels
• Factors that may affect your ability to stay in ketosis, including stress, sleep, exercise, and protein intake
• Whether a ketogenic diet needs to be lifelong for mental health benefits
• When (or if) supplements like MCT oil or exogenous ketones are appropriate

This episode is not a deep dive into every topic, but it sets the stage for future discussions—and highlights just how individualized ketogenic therapy can be.

📬 Have a question for Dr. Ede and Dr. Scher?

Leave a comment below or DM us on Instagram or X/Twitter (@MetabolicMind). Your question may be featured in a future Mailbag episode!

🔗 Learn more about ketogenic therapy for mental health: https://www.metabolicmind.org

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Expert Featured:

• Dr. Bret Sher
• Dr. Georgia Ede

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.