Ketone drink may boost brain power – but dose matters

NCT ID NCT06032156

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: McMaster University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether a single dose of a ketone supplement can improve blood flow to the brain and thinking skills in young adults. Twenty healthy people aged 18-35 took either a low dose, high dose, or a placebo drink. Researchers measured brain blood flow and memory performance over two hours. The goal is to understand if ketone supplements can help the brain work better without needing to fast.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: ketone monoester supplement (R-3-hydroxybutyl R-3-hydroxybutyrate)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward using ketone supplements to boost brain blood flow and mental performance in healthy people.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study in healthy young adults, so results may not apply to older or unhealthy populations. The effects on cognition are still uncertain.

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.

cognitive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CEREBROVASCULAR FUNCTION COGNITION

Contacts and locations

Locations

McMaster University

Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada

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