Ketogenic Diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis
(KETORA Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how a ketogenic diet (a high-fat, low-carb eating plan) might benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain. Participants will receive personalized coaching and support from a dietitian to adhere to the diet plan. Blood tests and diet records will track daily progress, along with additional health assessments. The trial seeks individuals with rheumatoid arthritis who are currently on stable medication doses. As an unphased trial, participants can contribute to groundbreaking research that may provide new dietary insights for managing rheumatoid arthritis.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications, but it requires that you have been on stable doses of certain RA medications for at least 2 months before joining. It's best to discuss with the trial team or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this ketogenic diet is safe for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis?
Studies have shown that the ketogenic diet (KD) can alter health indicators. For instance, it can raise both LDL and HDL cholesterol levels, which are types of fats in the blood. Some individuals might also experience weight loss and reduced body fat. However, the diet's very low carbohydrate content can be challenging for some.
Regarding safety, the ketogenic diet is generally safe for most people when followed correctly. Most issues arise during the initial adjustment period, often called the "keto flu," which can include headaches, tiredness, and nausea. These symptoms usually disappear after a few days. Long-term research on its safety for people with rheumatoid arthritis is ongoing, so it's important to monitor possible changes in cholesterol or other health indicators.
Overall, while the ketogenic diet has been used for various conditions and many people tolerate it well, discussing it with a healthcare provider is always advisable, especially when managing a condition like rheumatoid arthritis.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using a ketogenic diet for rheumatoid arthritis because it offers a non-drug approach to managing the condition. Traditional treatments like NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and DMARDs focus on reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. In contrast, the ketogenic diet aims to alter metabolism by promoting a state of ketosis, which may reduce inflammation and pain naturally. This diet also provides personalized support and continuous monitoring, potentially leading to better adherence and outcomes compared to standard medication regimens.
What evidence suggests that the ketogenic diet might be an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?
Research has shown that a ketogenic diet (KD) might help reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This diet is high in fats and low in carbohydrates. In this trial, participants will follow a ketogenic diet plan, receiving extensive educational and ongoing support. One study found that a ketogenic diet can lower inflammation, potentially easing RA symptoms. Another study found that people on a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet lost more fat than those on a low-fat diet. This weight loss could also help reduce RA symptoms by relieving pressure on the joints. While more research is needed, these early findings suggest that the KD might be helpful for RA due to its anti-inflammatory effects.16789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people with rheumatoid arthritis who've been on stable RA medication for at least 2 months. It's not suitable for those who've recently lost weight, have chronic infections like HIV or hepatitis, use insulin, had cancer, took steroids in the last month (except certain injections), drink heavily, have other inflammatory diseases, uncontrolled conditions like severe liver or lung disease, were hospitalized recently or tried a ketogenic diet/supplements lately.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants follow a 6-week ketogenic diet plan, supervised and monitored by a dietician. Diet adherence and progress are assessed daily using at-home blood ketone/glucose monitors, along with diet records. Participants receive personalized coaching and support.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessments of body composition and RA disease activity.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Ketogenic Diet
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Oklahoma
Lead Sponsor
Ohio State University
Lead Sponsor
Rheumatology Research Foundation
Collaborator
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator