Autism Therapy: ketogenic diet

Reduced calorie diets may improve behaviors in mice with symptoms like Rett syndrome.

These authors did a research study with mice that have a genetic condition that is like Rett syndrome in humans. The authors compared three diets fed to adult mice: 1) a low calorie ketogenic (high fat, low carbohydrate) diet; 2) a low calorie normal diet (normal amounts of fat and carbohydrates); and 3) a normal diet. Mice fed a low calorie diet (either ketogenic or normal) showed better behavior. The mice were more curious, explored more, and had better balance and motor skills. They also showed less anxiety than the normal diet mice. Other studies reported that a low calorie ketogenic diet led to improved behaviors in mice and in some girls with Rett syndrome. Those studies did not test a low calorie normal diet. Therefore, the authors of this article think that low calories may be more important for improved behaviors than the ketogenic diet. The authors said parents should be careful about starting a reduced calorie diet for girls with Rett syndrome. Girls with Rett syndrome tend to be smaller than normal girls and may have special dietary needs. They suggest that parents check with their child's doctor before trying any diet changes.