Brain fuel: ketosis and exercise may sharpen thinking, study hints

NCT ID NCT07218497

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Southern California Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether combining a ketosis-inducing drink with treadmill exercise can increase a brain protein called BDNF and improve thinking skills. Fifty healthy adults aged 18-35 will be given either the drink or a placebo, then exercise and take cognitive tests. The researchers also want to see if people with a specific gene variant respond differently.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: d-beta-hydroxybutrate (ketosis supplement)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward personalized strategies to boost brain health through diet and exercise based on genetics.
What could go wrong: This is a small early-phase study in healthy young adults, so results may not apply to older or unhealthy populations. The intervention is short-term and may not show lasting effects.

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.

Ketosis Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

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

BDNF COGNITION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California, 90089, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.