We invite you to explore our ongoing studies below. If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please contact the team using the email address provided for each specific study. If you're interested in staying updated with our research findings or wish to receive invitations to join upcoming studies, we invite you to subscribe here. You can expect to receive an e-mail circa four times per year.
Explore our ongoing research:
We are currently recruiting: healthy participants aged 65–85
UL-KME001 – The Effect of Ketone Monoester on Cognition in Neurotypical People of Different Ages
The aim of this study is to investigate whether elevating blood ketones by exogenous ketone supplement will increase cognitive performance in tests assessing working memory and cognitive flexibility. We will also perform multiple EEG scans, which should help us understand whether exogenous ketosis influences how quickly our brain reacts to auditory and semantic stimuli. If you are interested in joining this study, or if you want more information, contact David Bezpalec via d.b.bezpalec@fsw.leidenuniv.nl
LU-KD006 – Ketogenic Therapy in Autism: Efficacy and Sustainability (KETASE)
In this 30-week trial we study the effect and long-term sustainability of the ketogenic diet on quality of life and challenges related to autism traits and comorbidities in adults with ASD. Formal recruitment will start soon. Interested? You can already contact the study team at ketase@fsw.leidenuniv.nl.
Other ongoing studies
UL-KD002 - Impact of Ketogenic Therapy on ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance: Single case experiments
This study aims to provide individuals with ADHD, who are considering undertaking dietary changes, an opportunity to assess the impact of the dietary change on their symptoms through online questionnaires and cognitive tests. This is a prospective study. Recruitment is closed. Data analysis is ongoing.
UL-KD003 - Impact of Ketogenic Diet on Autism and Related Symptoms: A Series of Case Reports
In this study, we examine the experiences of adults with autism spectrum disorder who have followed, or are currently following, a ketogenic diet. Specifically, we investigate their experiences with potential changes in autism symptoms, related comorbidities, and overall quality of life during (and, if applicable, after) following the diet. Additionally, we assess the perceived feasibility of the ketogenic diet for individuals with autism. Recruitment is closed. Data analysis is ongoing.
UL-KD001 - The effect of diet on attention, mood, sleep quality, and cognition in undiagnosed woman.
In this study, we investigate the effect of multiple dietary interventions on attention and distractibility, mood, sleep quality via online self-reporting questionnaires. Furthermore, we ask the participants to perform a cognitive computer task to allow us to measure their cognitive performance over time. Participants (woman age 35-45) are coached in their new diet by experts. Recruitment is closed. Data analysis is ongoing.
UL-G001 - Correlation analysis between (epi)genetic biomarkers of metabolic and mental dysfunction
In this study, we will analyze available (epi)genetic and gene expression data to determine correlations between mental disease markers, specifically ASD and its comorbidities, and metabolic dysfunction, including metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and glucose transporter dysfunctions. While considering varying responsiveness of different individuals to different KD diet types, these markers may also enable prediction of KD intervention success. For this study, we are currently working on getting approval from the ethical committee.
Study finished: Report available
UL-F001 - The effect of 72h fasting on cognitive performance: a pilot study.
The study is closed. We investigated the effect of 72 hours fasting on cognitive performance by asking participants to complete a set of questionnaires and perform a computer task at different time-intervals during their fast. Details on the design, the hypothesis, and the results can be found here. Note: these are preliminary results.
Disclaimer The content of this website is provided by the Lifestyle Brain Interaction research group. It does not necessarily represent the views, strategy, or policies of Leiden University.
