Effects of ketone supplements on brain connectivity in older adults with memory complaints
The Impact of Acute Oral Ketone Monoester Supplementation on Resting-state Brain Connectivity in Adults With Memory Complaints
This study tests if taking a ketone supplement can improve brain function and blood flow in older adults who have memory concerns.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 55 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | McMaster University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hamilton, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT05992571 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how a single dose of ketone monoester supplementation affects brain connectivity and blood flow in adults aged 55 to 70 who report subjective memory complaints. The research aims to determine if this intervention can enhance cerebral metabolism and potentially protect against dementia. Participants will be assessed for their cognitive function and will receive either the ketone supplement or a placebo. The focus is on understanding the acute effects of ketones on brain function in this demographic.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are cognitively normal adults aged 55 to 70 with subjective memory complaints.
Not a fit: Patients with obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, or any form of dementia will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new dietary interventions that improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that ketone bodies can enhance cerebral blood flow and improve brain function in younger adults, suggesting potential for success in this older population.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * between the ages of 55 and 70 * presence of subjective memory complaints as determined by the Prospective- Retrospective Memory Questionnaire * cognitively normal, e.g. score ≥26 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of obesity (body mass index \> 30 kg/m\^2) * Presence of known cardiovascular disease * Presence of type 2 diabetes * History of cardiovascular events requiring hospitalization in the past 3 years (e.g., heart attack, stroke) * History of concussion(s) with persistent symptoms * Currently following a ketogenic diet and/or taking ketone body supplements * Diagnosis of any form of Alzheimer's disease or dementia
Where this trial is running
Hamilton, Ontario
- McMaster University — Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jeremy Walsh, PhD — McMaster University
- Study coordinator: Jeremy Walsh, PhD
- Email: walshj18@mcmaster.ca
- Phone: 905-525-9140
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.