How diet affects brain energy in aging and Alzheimer's disease

Investigating Neuroenergetic Changes through Diet in Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease (INC-AD)

NIH-funded research University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-10889811

This study is looking at how following a ketogenic diet might help improve brain energy and function in older adults and those with Alzheimer's disease, using special imaging techniques to see how the diet affects brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889811 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how changes in diet, specifically the ketogenic diet, can influence brain energy metabolism in aging individuals and those with Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing advanced magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques, the study aims to measure key biomarkers related to brain energy production and metabolism. Participants will be involved in a randomized clinical trial to assess the effects of the ketogenic diet on cognitive function and overall brain health. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms behind dietary impacts on brain energy and develop effective interventions for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing cognitive decline or do not have a risk of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary interventions that significantly improve cognitive function and brain health in aging and Alzheimer's patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with dietary interventions like the ketogenic diet in improving cognitive outcomes in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting a potential for success in this study.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer disease prevention
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.