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Mechanistic Effect of Ketones on Cerebral Blood Flow

Cerebral Blood Flow | Cerebrovascular Function

Oral supplements containing exogenous ketones have recently become available and represent a novel tool for increasing plasma ketone bodies without the need for dietary restriction. Early evidence suggests that oral ketone supplements may enhance cerebral blood flow (CBF). However, a higher dose of a ketone monoester has been shown to slightly lower blood pH and reduce end-tidal CO2 (PetCO2) due to compensatory hyperventilation, which is accompanied by parallel reductions in CBF. Whether reductions in PetCO2 causes reductions in CBF is currently unknown.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of manipulating PetCO2 at normocapnia (PetCO2 maintained at baseline) or poikilocapnia (no PetCO2 targeting; breathing room air), following the ingestion of a dose of a ketone monoester on CBF and cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 in young adults.

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Participation Requirements

  • Sex:

    ALL

  • Eligible Ages:

    18 to 35

Participation Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* Having a normal blood pressure (≤125/≤85 mmHg)
* Between the ages of 18 and 35

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who are obese (body mass index \> 30 kg/m\^2)
* Individuals who smoke
* Individuals with respiratory illnesses
* A history of type 2 diabetes, hypoglycemia, or cardiovascular diseases (i.e. heart attack, stroke)
* Individuals currently following a ketogenic diet or taking ketone supplements
* Individuals with a history of concussion(s) with persistent symptoms
* Individuals participating in elite-level physical training (i.e. varsity athletics)

Study Location

McMaster University
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario
Canada

Contact Study Team

Primary Contact

Jeremy Walsh, PhD

[email protected]
9055259140
Study Sponsored By
McMaster University
Participants Required
More Information
Study ID: NCT06217159