THE FOUNDATION
Metabolism
and the brain
Metabolic psychiatry studies the link between brain health and how the body makes and uses energy. The brain uses roughly 20% of the body's total energy — and when that energy supply is disrupted by insulin resistance, inflammation, or mitochondrial dysfunction, mood, cognition, and behavior are directly affected.
This is not a metaphor. These are measurable, treatable biological events — and interventions that improve metabolic health are showing real promise across depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and neurodegenerative conditions.
2–3×
higher risk of depression in people with type 2 diabetes compared to those without
CDC, 2024
>40%
of people with serious mental illness have metabolic dysfunction — even without outward signs
STANFORD MEDICINE, 2025
4 in 10
young American adults have insulin resistance — even if not diabetic or obese
PARCHA ET AL., 2022
THE SCIENCE, SIMPLIFIED
How energy shapes
the mind
1
Brain Power
The brain uses roughly 20% of our body's energy — despite making up only 2% of total body weight. Every thought, emotion, and action depends on a constant, efficient energy supply.
2
Energy Dysregulation
Poor energy metabolism can produce brain fog, mood swings, and emotional dysregulation that may look like depression, mania, or anxiety. Low or inefficient brain metabolism may contribute to psychiatric symptoms.
3
Energy Support
Better metabolism means improved focus and mood stability. When brain cells receive a consistent, clean energy supply, thinking becomes clearer and emotional regulation becomes more robust.
FUELING THE BRAIN
Glucose and ketones:
two energy sources
The brain primarily uses two energy sources. Understanding both highlights how brain energy availability affects mental function — and why metabolic approaches can influence psychiatric outcomes.
Glucose
● Derived from carbohydrates, glucose is the body's default and readily available fuel source.
● Most Standard American Diets are high in sugars and carbs, which break down into glucose for energy.
● Quick fuel, but an unstable energy source — can lead to energy crashes and mood swings.
● Increased levels of glucose over time can cause insulin resistance, reducing cellular energy efficiency.
Ketones
● Produced from fat when carbohydrate intake is low — during fasting or a ketogenic diet.
● Provides steady, stable energy for the brain. Ketones can cross the blood-brain barrier efficiently.
● Some brains use ketones better — especially when glucose processing is impaired by insulin resistance.
● Ketones can support brain energy stability, improve mitochondrial function, and reduce oxidative stress.
KETOGENIC THERAPY
What is the
Ketogenic Diet?
A ketogenic diet is a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that shifts the body's metabolism from using glucose to using fat as the primary fuel source. When carbohydrate intake is drastically reduced, the liver converts fat into ketones — and the brain enters a state of ketosis.
01
70–75%
HIGH FAT
The dominant macronutrient — from sources like avocado, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish. Provides the raw material for ketone production.
02
20–25%
MODERATE PROTEIN
Sufficient to maintain muscle mass and support neurotransmitter synthesis. Too much protein can interfere with ketosis.
03
5–10%
VERY LOW CARB
Dramatically reduced carbohydrate intake is the key trigger for ketosis. Individual needs may vary — some therapeutic protocols use a 4:1 ratio.
04
Ketosis
KETONE PRODUCTION
Trains the body to burn fat, not sugar. This metabolic state provides the brain with a stable, alternative fuel that bypasses glucose processing issues.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Foundational pillars
of metabolic care
Applying metabolic psychiatry involves a holistic, lifestyle-based approach. Rather than a single intervention, it focuses on foundational pillars that support the body and brain's energy systems.
PILLAR ONE
Nutrition
KETOGENIC & LOW-CARB
Ketogenic, low-carbohydrate, or carnivore-style approaches may be appropriate when tailored to personal needs and medical guidance.
REDUCE SUGAR
Minimize sugar and ultra-processed foods that disrupt metabolism and drive inflammation and insulin resistance.
HEALTHY FATS
Include omega-3s and other brain-supporting fats that reduce neuroinflammation and support neuronal membrane health.
PILLAR TWO
Movement
STRENGTH TRAINING
Builds muscle and improves insulin sensitivity. More muscle means the body can use insulin more efficiently, improving overall metabolic function.
WALKING
Gentle, accessible movement that regulates blood sugar throughout the day. Improves circulation and supports cardiovascular health.
MIND-BODY PRACTICES
Yoga and tai chi support stress reduction, improve hormonal balance, and indirectly support mitochondrial function by lowering cortisol and inflammation.
PILLAR THREE
Sleep
MORNING LIGHT
Get sunlight exposure early in the day to set your circadian rhythm, supporting energy balance and insulin sensitivity.
CONSISTENT SCHEDULE
Maintain regular sleep-wake times to promote hormonal balance and ensure the brain and body can fully repair and regulate energy.
EVENING ROUTINE
Limit screens and use blue light blockers in the evening. Quality sleep allows the brain to repair, regulate energy, and maintain healthy metabolism.