THE ROLE OF KETOGENESIS IN THE CLINICAL COURSE OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE AND THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF THE KETOGENIC DIET

This study examines the role of ketogenesis in the clinical course of Parkinson’s disease and evaluates the therapeutic potential of the ketogenic diet as a supportive treatment strategy. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms associated with dopaminergic neuron loss and mitochondrial dysfunction. Recent research suggests that ketone bodies may serve as an alternative energy source for neurons, reduce oxidative stress, and improve mitochondrial function. The ketogenic diet, by inducing a state of ketosis, may help alleviate symptoms, enhance cognitive function, and slow disease progression. This paper analyzes current clinical and experimental findings on the impact of ketosis on neuroprotection, symptom management, and quality of life in Parkinson’s patients. The results indicate that ketogenic interventions hold promising potential but require further large-scale clinical validation.