Could a keto diet boost brain zaps for depression?
NCT ID NCT07376018
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Aug 07, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study tests whether adding a ketogenic (low-carb) diet to a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment called iTBS helps people with treatment-resistant depression feel better. Sixty adults will follow either a keto diet or a standard healthy diet for three weeks, then receive personalized brain stimulation while staying on their diet. Researchers will measure changes in depression scores, ketone levels, and brain scans to see if the combination is safe and effective.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- ketogenic diet
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new way to boost the effects of brain stimulation for people with hard-to-treat depression.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small early-stage trial with only 60 people. The diet is hard to follow, and the added benefit over brain stimulation alone is unproven. Side effects like low blood sugar or stomach issues are possible.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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