Keto and Migraine

Ketones can counteract the brain’s energy crisis in several ways. First, they reduce the brain’s hyperexcitability; second, they have anti-inflammatory effects; and third, they supply the mitochondria — the brain’s power plants — with the energy they need. In doing so, they improve the brain’s energy supply through multiple mechanisms. An Italian study from 2023 with 75 participants showed that both the frequency and the severity of migraines were significantly reduced, and participants’ quality of life improved.

The majority of migraine patients are women. Many experience migraines when their estrogen levels drop, which increases stress levels and raises cortisol. This boosts gluconeogenesis (the production of new glucose), which in turn raises blood sugar levels. During this phase of the menstrual cycle, women are more insulin resistant than usual, meaning the brain receives even less energy. For hormonally triggered migraines, exogenous ketones and MCT oil are recommended. This oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that are directly converted into ketones by the liver.