Try a ketogenic diet approach to manage bipolar disorder symptoms

Recruiting

What is this trial?

This is a research study testing whether a ketogenic diet—a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan—can help improve symptoms of bipolar disorder in adolescents and young adults. Researchers at UCLA, University of Pittsburgh, University of Colorado, and University of Cincinnati want to see if this dietary approach might be a helpful addition to treatment. The study will enroll 80 young people and carefully monitor how the diet affects mood, energy, and other symptoms over time.

Current treatments for bipolar disorder in teenagers often rely on medications alone, which can have side effects or not work well for everyone. This study explores whether dietary changes might offer another option to help manage mood symptoms and potentially improve quality of life.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 12 and 21 years old and speak English
you have been diagnosed with bipolar I, bipolar II, or another bipolar spectrum disorder
you have had active depression or mood symptoms in the past two weeks that are at least moderate in severity
you are stable enough to be treated as an outpatient (not in crisis, not hospitalized, and safe)
you and your parent or guardian (if you are under 18) are willing to try the ketogenic diet and attend regular study visits

You likely don't qualify if…

you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or underweight
you have a current or past eating disorder like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating
you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, heart rhythm problems, or a history of seizures
you have moderate to severe autism spectrum disorder
you have a history of stroke or cancer

What participation looks like

If you qualify, you'll start with a 4-week intake period where you'll meet with a psychiatrist and psychologist, have blood tests and a urine sample taken (about 2 tablespoons of blood), and get evaluated for safety and fit. Then you'll begin the ketogenic diet under supervision, meeting regularly with a study psychiatrist and a dietitian who will help you follow the diet, check how you're doing, and watch for any side effects. Throughout the study, you'll attend appointments at one of the four universities involved and complete assessments to measure changes in your mood and symptoms.

Testing a Ketogenic Diet to Treat Bipolar Disorder in Teenagers

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(4 sites)