Date of Award

8-12-2024

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Vanessa Bester

Abstract

Mental health affects millions of people worldwide, and current pharmaceutical treatment approaches often lead to worse outcomes, weight gain, and increased cardiovascular risk. The ketogenic diet offers hope in the treatment of schizophrenia and other neurological and psychiatric disorders. The aim of this project is to explore public awareness of nutritional psychiatry and the ketogenic diet’s clinical utility for various conditions including schizophrenia, mood disorders, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. Study participants (n=108) completed a 12-question survey about individual nutritional habits and current knowledge of KD. Responses were obtained from medical students, practicing healthcare professionals, college undergraduate students, and members of the general public. It was found that 74.5% of participants consciously utilize nutrition to improve their wellbeing. 84.9% of participants reported negative mental wellbeing when eating unhealthy foods. Similarly, results showed that 63.2% of individuals noted improved mental health when eating healthier food options. While 85.4% of participants agree with the statement that KD has a role in weight management, there was no significant difference in the perceived role of KD in depression and psychosis. The perceived role of KD for relieving symptoms was observed for chronic seizures, Parkinson’s and MS. The findings of this study highlight the need for future research on KD’s clinical utility in chronic disease. With greater public awareness in both the medical and non-medical communities, healthcare teams can reduce the alarming rate of metabolic syndrome that is comorbid with many chronic conditions and prevent premature deaths in severe mental illness.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2024.Nsengiyu.I

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