Medically reviewed by Luc Jasmin, M.D., Ph.D., FRCS (C), FACS
Written by Emily Brown
The keto diet is a popular topic among people with multiple sclerosis (MS), including many MyMSTeam members. The keto diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrates compared with a more balanced diet where carbohydrates, when broken down, are the main source of energy.
Research has shown potential benefits of the keto diet in improving MS symptoms, such as reducing fatigue and improving quality of life. However, although some people find their health improves while on the keto diet, others experience the opposite, such as worsening fatigue. For some, the benefits are enough to continue the diet, while others don’t see enough of a difference to make it worth it.
As with any diet that restricts certain food groups or limits one or more macronutrients like carbohydrates, there are risks. Diet affects people differently, and no one diet works for MS.
Read more details about the keto diet, its potential benefits and risks related to MS symptoms, and what MyMSTeam members who have tried the diet report about their experiences.
What Is the Keto Diet?
The ketogenic diet, also known as the keto diet, is a high-fat, low-carb diet. It’s called “ketogenic” because of the effect that low carbohydrate intake has on the body. When there aren’t enough carbohydrates available as an energy source, the body converts fats into molecules called ketones in a process called ketosis.
Usually, glucose that comes from the breakdown of carbohydrates is the main source of energy for the body. The American Dietary Guidelines recommend that carbohydrates make up the bulk of an adult’s diet (45 percent to 65 percent). On the keto diet, however, fats make up 55 percent to 60 percent of the diet, while carbohydrates make up only 5 percent to 10 percent. Ketones then become the main source of energy, as there are not enough carbohydrates to break down for energy.
The keto diet generally restricts starchy, carbohydrate-heavy, or sugary foods. This includes starchy vegetables like potatoes and beets as well as sugary fruits like bananas and pears.
There are different keto diets such as the classic keto diet, the medium-chain triglyceride diet, the modified Atkins diet, the low-glycemic-index treatment, and the modified ketogenic diet. You might have to try a few before deciding which one is best for you.
There are many online resources for what you can and can’t eat on the keto diet. Always check with your doctor or a nutritionist before beginning any diet, especially one as restrictive as keto. In addition, research on the keto diet and MS is limited, so keep in mind there are no guarantees it can reduce MS symptoms.
Keto Diet and MS
Potential Benefits for MS Symptoms
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