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 receiving invitations to join upcoming studies, we invite you to subscribe here.
Recruitment ongoing: You can still join!
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 Currently recruiting: Cognitive healthy elderly aged 65-85 Participant language: English or Dutch
LU-KD006:Ketogenic Therapy in Adults with Autism In this 24-week trial we study the feasibility, safety, and potential effect of the ketogenic diet on quality of life and challenges related to autism traits and comorbidities in adults with ASD. The first group started in September 2026. We are now recruiting participants for the second group, who will start with the intervention in January/February 2027. You can contact the study team at ketase@fsw.leidenuniv.nl. Currently recruiting: adults with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder Participant language: Dutch
Recruitment closed
UL-KD002: Impact of Ketogenic Therapy on ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance: A Series of Cases 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. If you want more information, contact David Bezpalec via d.b.bezpalec@fsw.leidenuniv.nl. (English)
UL-KD003: Impact of Ketogenic Diet on Autism and Related Symptoms: A Series of Cases 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.
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.
UL-KD007: Ketogenic Therapy in a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD Symptoms: A Case Report Case report of a 9 year old boy who is following ketogenic therapy in the context of ASD and ADHD challenges. Follow-up of blood markers, psychological outcomes, and behavior.
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.
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.
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