Korean Journal of Community Nutrition (대한지역사회영양학회지)

The Korean Society of Community Nutrition (대한지역사회영양학회)
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Effects of Low-carbohydrate and High-fat Diet Supplemented with Ketogenic Drink on Cognitive Function and Physical Performance in the Elderly at High Risk for Dementia

케톤음료를 보충한 저탄수화물·고지방식이 섭취가 치매고위험 노인의 인지기능 및 신체활동 능력 변화에 미치는 영향

  • Kim, Eun-Ji (Dept. of Medical Nutrition, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University) ;
  • Park, Jung-Sik (Maeil Dairies Co., Ltd.) ;
  • Choi, Won-Sun (MD wellI Inc) ;
  • Park, Yoo Kyoung (Dept. of Medical Nutrition, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University)
  • 김은지 (경희대학교 동서의학대학원 의학영양학과) ;
  • 박정식 (매일유업(주) 중앙연구소) ;
  • 최원선 ((주)엠디웰 아이엔씨) ;
  • 박유경 (경희대학교 동서의학대학원 의학영양학과)
  • Received : 2019.11.06
  • Accepted : 2019.12.09
  • Published : 2019.12.20
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Abstract

Objectives: Reduced glucose utilization in the main parts of the brain involved in memory is a major cause of Alzheimer's disease, in which ketone bodies are used as the only and effective alternative energy source of glucose. This study examined the effects of a low-carbohydrate and high-fat (LCHF) diet supplemented with a ketogenic nutrition drink on cognitive function and physical activity in the elderly at high risk for dementia. Methods: The participants of this study were 28 healthy elderly aged 60-91 years showing a high risk factor of dementia or whose Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE) score was less than 24 points. Over 3 weeks, the case group was given an LCHF diet with nutrition drinks consisting of a ketone/non-ketone ratio of 1.73:1, whereas the control group consumed well-balanced nutrition drinks while maintaining a normal diet. After 3 weeks, K-MMSE, body composition, urine ketone bodies, and physical ability were all evaluated. Results: Urine ketone bodies of all case group subjects were positive, and K-MMSE score was significantly elevated in the case group only (p=0.021). Weight and BMI were elevated in the control group only (p<0.05). Grip strength was elevated in all subjects (p<0.01), and measurements of gait speed and one leg balance were improved only in the case group (p<0.05). Conclusions: We suggest that adherence to the LCHF diet supplemented with a ketogenic drink could possibly influence cognitive and physical function in the elderly with a high risk factor for dementia. Further, we confirmed the applicability of this dietary intervention in the elderly based on its lack of any side effects or changes in nutritional status.

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References

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