Responding to Your Criticisms of Medical Keto

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

JOIN OUR ONLINE PEER SUPPORT COMMUNITY Schizophrenia Peer Support Community: www.schizophreniapeersupport.com

[@ActiveResearchYouTube]

When you take care of yourself AND succeed at it, the HATTERS will come out of the woodwork. That's all.

[@CarnaghSidhe]

Some of us have a psychotic component within our condition. We're simply waiting to see if you face plant. If not, then all good, and it is indeed very interesting. It's still a bit early yet to judge isn't it?.. Can you recommend an alternative approach to waiting to see if you face plant?.. I'm personally hoping this does work out for you, and then I'll be taking another look at Keto... I did a keto diet some 7 years ago, and it didn't end well for me, and indeed it directly preceeded a breakdown... so, I'm cautious... but, I'm watching with interest, wish you well, and have hope.

[@DinsAFK]

I wish I could pay to message you directly, but please don't let people manipulate you into thinking and/or profit off of you thinking you are crazy. You know you aren't and that your mental troubles have been contributed to some form of substances or lifestyle choices. Don't let others gaslight you into thinking it is just you. Continue the healthy lifestyle and continue to prove the world wrong.

[@CarnaghSidhe]

@@DinsAFK you can pay to message them directly... under the video to the righthand side, there is an icon with a dollar sign in a heart... you can click on that, allocate a payment, and type a message that will accompany your payment... your wish is just a couple of clicks away, so how lucky are you?

[@77777sadie]

​@CarnaghSidhe You might find the Medibolic Mind KZbin channel interesting. I was skeptical of the intervention as well. I'm sixty-three and have tried quite a few things over the years with no success. After much reasearch, I decided to try it. I start this coming Wednesday. I wish you the best!

[@plainseed]

I strongly believe that for mental health problems, you have to try anything and everything you can. Sometimes the miracle lies there edit: I don't mean to say medication doesn't work. I am sorry if my original comment mislead you. In fact I believe that a combination of THE RIGHT medication and other activities work best.

[@suzannealsop3394]

Very true. Even know someone who had a successful part exorcism which releaved the mental illness! Not saying that all mental illness is caused by demonic spirits by any means but perhaps for a handful it could be it would seem. Just a testimony to what I have witnessed.

[@TyroneBiggums789]

Exactly, even for physical health problems where no meds have helped, gotta keep trying new things and have hope that things can get better

[@janem5900]

Better than unrealistic miracles - Medical Ketosis potentially has real advantages.

[@replaceablehead]

Well put. It's like at a certain point in the journey you realise you're not going to be handed the answer and you're just going to have to experiment.

[@suzannealsop3394]

Absolutely! Not all mental illnesses are caused by demonic spirits but I do know someone who had a part successful exorcism that releaved his symptoms.

[@jrstanley7085]

I just wanted to share great thanks for showing me different options when it comes to living with schizophrenia. I am week 14 into my experience of ketogenic therapies and after 24 years of doing exactly what my medical practitioner asked. I am having a different experience of schizophrenia. I feel better than I have in decades. And I am working with my medical practitioners. I am being monitored more closely by my doctors. And maybe I am lucky I am working with the support of the medical team. I just wanted to say thank you. This channel has been a great support in the past two years

[@felicitythomson3397]

fantastic news, we're just starting... gradually getting into it this week. We're in Australia and they're not to sure about it but Im insisting. Pushing that extra bit. Im sure my son will reap benefits from this.

[@justylex]

I have been on Keto/low carb for almost 7 years, and I have not found it to be any more expensive at all. I am not eating the junk…ice cream, chips, candy…that are normally in the house, and I don’t eat fast food. It all evens out. I make many dinners into a salad…for example, my family is having tacos, so I make myself a taco salad. I use lettuce instead of buns when we have burgers. Lettuce/salads have never thrown me out of ketosis. There has been research showing that there is a connection between insulin resistance/diabetes and Schizophrenia, and there is not a diet out there that fixes insulin resistance as easily or quickly as Keto. I don’t have Schizophrenia, but the ‘placebo effect’ caused me to lose 50lbs in 2 months, got me out of pre-diabetes, my plantar fascia pain disappeared within 2 weeks, I was able to lower my dose of Synthroid (Hashimoto’s) for the first time in my life, and I have not had a single episode of health anxiety in the 7 years (diagnosed hypochondria). I am quite pleased with the placebo effect🤷‍♀️

[@damianjones6546]

That's amazing 👍. I hope to be able to stick to a full keto diet one day.

[@justylex]

@@damianjones6546 it gets easier after the first couple of months. You stop craving sweets and begin craving asparagus instead🤷‍♀️🤣

[@oneworld1160]

I started to think about food only after my diabetes diagnosis. I would never ever do any diet, but started to avoid all the carb-loaded junk the industry offers us. Now I am eating carbs only intentionally (a pizza per month is a great treat), my diabetes is completely gone and I get to enjoy the real taste of all these fish, meat and veggies that nature offers us. I do not see it as a diet, but rather a kind of normalisation of my eating. Is it expensive? No! Unprocessed food is generally of better quality and cheaper than the industrial stuff. At restaurants its easy just to order a dish without fries, and ask some salad with it. Mental health impact: I lost my severe depression already before these changes, but feel generally quite healthy and strong. Some weeks ago I even quit the wine that was with me some 40 years. So probably it can work. But life is work in progress, so even these positive experiences should not lead to false security.

[@justylex]

@@oneworld1160 having a treat once awhile is a good thing👍🏼. I do the same once a month.

[@RationalNon-conformist]

Wow, great job-Seriously! I also had Hashimotos and carnivore is what works for me.. I says “had” because my antibodies have gone way don’t want to claim this disease. But I’ve dealt with it. It’s horrible. I take cytomel and maybe one day I can lower my dose :)

[@marybarker2363]

Thank you for all that you do! My son lives with schizoidaffective disorder and has been tortured by it for 13 years. He is just beginning to have insight into the disorder. He was extremely excited about your experiences with the medical ketogenic diet and we just bought Dr Palmers book. Thank from the bottom of my heart. You have given hope to a huge group of people that may not have the ability to respond to you. Know you are making a tremendous difference

[@felicitythomson3397]

We also have been given hope by this. And have the audio book. We are trying it now and it all makes sense. As I say to my son... its like a garden make over for your brain. Pulling out the weeds... getting rid of the rust... sprucing up the place and planting good plants in good soil. !😂❤🎉🌼🌸🌼 it will take time... but its proactive !!!!

[@77777sadie]

​@@felicitythomson3397Awe, you are such a good mom. I wish you and your son the best!

[@77777sadie]

I'm so touched that your son has hope! I sincerely believe this medical intervention is going to work. I'm sixty-three and have suffered from Bipolar 1 almost all of my life. Your son most likely will respond to this treatment. Ensuring him of a happy and healthy life. ❤ Unlike myself. But now I have hope as well!

[@cindyperez1085]

I have followed you for years. I applaud you for stepping out of your comfort zone to try a new approach to managing your illness. While our mental illnesses are different, your content has given me the courage to try to get off one of my meds that is known to be a risky one. I am working with my doctor. I have been on this medication for 37 years. I have been afraid to rock the boat by trying to make this change. You have helped me to take the step by encouraging me to think about my overall health. It was scary to take the first step but now my dosage is half of what it was and I should be completely off it in another month. Although your current content is about keto, what I have gained from watching is to think about my life and health differently and to not be afraid to reassess where I am now and what might be possible in my future. Thank you for this. You are courageous and not afraid to share and be vulnerable. I can’t tell you how much that means. Go, Lauren! Love you. 💕

[@felicitythomson3397]

well done!!🎉 its also helped me think about mental health in a different way.

[@hannahtan8096]

Hi, Lauren. In my humble opinions, whether your mental illness is in remission is still too early to confirm and too early to say that it's in remission. Normally we have to observe for 6 months at least where there is no symptoms at all for 6 months. Both positive and negative symptoms. Then, after that 6 months, dr will still observe for at least 1 or even 2 years to certify you are in remission. At least in my country, it's like this. I have a friend who has schizophrenia and she was ady symptoms free for 6 months, but dr say still need to observe, after 3 years now, totally no symptoms, only Dr certified and inform her and her family that her schizophrenia is in remission. She follows dr advice and did not rush the process. And she is taking medication like antipsychotic and she never miss a dose and now she is taking only 1 antipsychotic thats all with the minimum dose as maintenance dose. She did not rush the process, she follows dr advice and she never miss a dose. She is not in keto. But she takes nap and rest everyday, exercise few times a week, work a part time freelance job, have good family support. Just want to let you know that there are ppl who put their schizophrenia into remission with psychiatry medication. Not everyone reject psychiatry medication or think the medication is harmimg them.

[@RexytheRexy]

I'm also Schizoaffective. I respect your willingness to be so open, share your journey, and deeply admire your willingness to venture into the unknown in the name of creating a better world for yourself and your mind. Nothing but respect, there, especially because you're opening yourself up to critique/criticism about something so personal. Please, do not take any of the following personally. It's nothing against you as a human being. I share the concerns of other people who are talking about you not simply educating people about keto, but pushing us in that direction (10:00) and suggesting that medication is simply more convenient. It isn't about convenience for some of us, but about ensuring our stability and function. Changing a lifestyle to that extent can involve a tremendous amount of privilege, not just in terms of the amount that the food costs. Skepticism is important on both sides of this, especially for people who have fought for years to attain stability. Do antipsychotics have very frightening side effects? Abso.f**king.lutely. I've seen your channel recommended to people whose loved ones are schizophrenic based on the keto diet alone, not on anything else, and it still seems early to be advocating so strongly for this in terms of recommending it to others, given the relatively short span of time you've been on the keto diet in the long run. I'm only mentioning my qualms because you have a great deal of influence, and I want to give you the same degree of honesty that you give us. I appreciate you, and am so glad that you're doing so much better. I hope this ends up being a viable long-term treatment for us; it would be remarkable if we could rely less on pharmaceuticals.

[@SevenUnwokenDreams]

Keto food is so expensive. I also don't have the support I would need to stay on a strict diet. I have trouble brushing my teeth every day. Sometimes I don't even eat. So I don't think it is likely I could do a diet like that, maybe some day if I get it more together. I agree there's some privilege involved.

[@maryann823]

I am a woman of little means- it is not an expensive diet. Not, when you cut all the junk and eat outs., out. It’s just not as an exciting diet without the above mentioned. I think I would try…. I’m saying that with nothing but respect.

[@RexytheRexy]

@@maryann823 and only respect is taken from it. Thank you for being so kind and letting me know that it genuinely is possible for people without much in the way of resources. 💜

[@tracimontgomery6515]

Because she's trying to find a cure because obviously, she can't accept the fact that she has a mental illness and she's constantly changing her lifestyle.Well, if it's working for her that's fine, but why did she come on here and tell other people they should stop taking their medicine.I think she's absolutely a wanna be doctor without the dockering

[@Catlily5]

Good way to put it. I hope that the Keto diet works for Lauren and others but I am not completely convinced this early.

[@filippo8189]

I think you highlighted some really important reasons why people may be reluctant to switch to a ketogenic diet, or really any other comprehensive intervention. I want to share another reason why I suspect people are opposed to radical lifestyle changes, which I even struggle with at a subconscious level even though it's irrational. For me personally, I feel like putting my mental illness in full remission would open my eyes to how poorly I was forced to live in the past, which I suspect would cause a tremendous amount of grief regarding the amount of time lost to the illness. I fear that going into complete remission would remind me of how I used to function before the onset of my illness and would re-traumatize me by showing me how much better life can be. It's paradoxical to fear to get better, but when you have been in pain for so long and worked so hard to accept the limitations imposed by your disease, it's almost more painful to be confronted with reality that life can be so much better. I think this is the reason why people are afraid of longevity research: people simply didn't have any choice but to accept the inevitability of the aging process for most of human history. They have seen their loved ones die and were helpless to do anything about it. Realizing the healthy life extension might be possible would force us to be re-confronted with the harshness of the human condition, something that we have learnt to normalize and accept since we were children. It would also mean realizing how many people didn't get their chance at radical life extension and have missed out forever. These paradigm shifts come with tremendous amounts of grief attached, but I hope we are brave enough to confront our fears and our grief so that we can move to better shores.

[@deliabusuioc6034]

Shrink here. You re a pioneer, Lauren! I am so grateful to you for sharing your journeys! People are affraid that it s too good to be true, they are affraid to get hurt by hopes, and this is why they react like this. Have been and will be following your trip through life! Much love:)

[@caveweta]

People need to walk a mile in your shoes. I can’t imagine how hard this can be for you, don’t feel you have to justify anything you’re doing to anyone. We’ll keep watching and supporting you from the sidelines. Kia kaha!

[@theslitherysylvie4010]

I think part of this is that many of us get excited when we discover or start a new treatment, only to find we cannot afford it/get it approved by insurance or if we do, the treatment doesn't help, or the side effects cause other health problems.The worst thing to me is when something works for a few months or a year, and then it quits working. So many of us are tired and jaded from it all. I have followed this channel for years, and I am really grateful for all the info shared. It takes a lot of courage and compassion to put your personal life online to help others.❤

[@VideoNOLA]

Mental health professionals would do well to adopt "The Lauren Test", whereby if a person demonstrates the capability of putting together as well-considered and thoughtful 30-minute presentation as we just watched, that there is boundless hope for their future indeed. You'd be hard pressed to find other content creators with this much personal insight, caring and concern over choosing the CORRECT (not merely CONVENIENT) course of action, and to document every step so thoroughly. That level of compassion for oneself and others is not merely enlightened, it is clearly part of living a full life.

[@jan_ellison_baszucki]

Exactly! Well said.

[@Coolranchcockroach]

When reading the “critical” comments, a lot of them read as a bit resentful of Lauren bettering her health/feeling better, but because it’s not really appropriate to voice that resentment outwardly they are critiquing how she’s going about managing her health. I read a lot of “you’re telling me I have to do X” which I think is projection because she has consistently reiterated that she is not telling anyone what to do but trying to document this process for educational purposes. I’ve been the person in the comments before. I’ve envied others whose mental health has improved and turned that envy into indignation and moral outrage. Keep it up Lauren! This is so valuable. Even though keto is not how I want to address my mental illness, seeing how well you’re doing now that you are implementing new metabolic therapies has changed how I think about my own health and mental health care. Thank you!

[@doesnotFempute]

this is absolutely a huge component. I used keto to put several metabolic conditions into remission (and lost 130 lbs in the process). I am on this train for life. Every time I fell off the wagon, I felt terrible immediately and it took weeks to get my head back in the game. But the most shocking was how my own family / friends tried to sabotage my progress. People would message me, begging to know how I made these changes. And when I told them, they would complain and tell me how I'm going to have a heart attack etc. Nobody ever told me that when I was 300+ lbs with NAFLD and prediabetes. Misery LOVES company. I'm so grateful to Lauren for sharing her unfiltered experience, despite the negative nancys. And I'm happy FOR her success!

[@shawnrisley2404]

Interesting comment. Agree. I see Lauren's consulting with med professionals, trial of keto monitors, etc, and sharing her experience as her experience only, as exceptional. What a lot of work to do all that. We cannot be addicted to the channel for interesting stories; hey, this is not just infotainment. Changing therapies or meds or lifestyle is scary, because the feeling of stability on a drug can feel like a life raft, but we can't resent someone else for having the guts to try to improve their life. Thank you, Lauren, for the clear and gentle exploration of viewpoints. Mental flexibility is a big deal. Viva!

[@77777sadie]

​@@doesnotFemputeAmazing results! You are an inspiration. Thank you so nuch for sharing your story! I'm in the process of preparing to start the Keto diet. After much research, there is no doubt in my mind this intervention is going to work for me. So sorry you haven't received the support you deserve. I suspect I will receive the same treatment. At the age of sixty-three, and suffering from bipolar 1 my entire life, I have nothing to loose. Years of taking psychiatric drugs caught up with me, I'm in a mental decline, and close being homebound. Again, thank you for sharing. God bless 💞

[@77777sadie]

@doesnotFempute Hopefully, you won't mind if I ask some questions. I have Dr. Palmers book and have been listening to the Medibolic Mind Channel. I understand some of the science regarding the Keio Diet, but I am having a difficult time putting a meal plan together. There are no resources available in my area, and I can not afford to pay an online couch or doc. I have snacks made ahead. I'm confused as to how to count the macros. I need recipes, especially for lunch and dinner. I'm very overwhelmed at times but determined to do the diet. This week, I cut out sugar and plan to go "all in" in two weeks. Did you figure out how to do the diet by yourself? Do you know where I might find some meal plans? There is so much conflicting info out there. I fully believe Dr. Palmer is right. I have nothing left to lose. I'm sixty-two, been on meds for years, and it has caught up to me. My mind is slipping. Any advice you can give me would be greatly appreciated

[@sarahjaye4117]

Yeah the might just not want to avoid a lot of foods and are scared or thinking she's telling them What to do

[@SH-mx7hk]

I want to preface this by saying, I’ve followed and valued your channel for years, and really do think you offer high quality content and a valuable perspective. That said: You might think I’m being nitpicky, but when you said this is “an experiment” - it’s not really. A true experiment has 2 groups, one that receives the treatment and one that doesn’t, and the group that receives the treatment has rigorous controls and is chosen randomly. You are doing a case study, and since you are the one doing it, you are biased - which isn’t a bad thing - it’s just a thing to consider when presenting it to your audience. My concern is when a sample size of one is presented to a large audience of potentially ill people with such enthusiasm, it could affect people and encourage them to stop taking medicine without consulting their doctors like you did. I am seeing largely how responsible you are for your own health, and I don’t think anybody could argue you aren’t. However, when you present something like this in a biased way, it’s not a study or an experiment, it’s an anecdotal case study. If I had any wish for what you are doing, I’d encourage you to start every video with a disclaimer that what you are doing has inherent risks, that it is not necessarily proven to be extended to a population, and that the case study is not conclusive or meant to be applied to everybody without consultation. Saying things like “Well, it’s working for me” is often what things like supplement salespeople do when there isn’t empirical evidence, and while I am extremely happy for you, responsible communication to those who do not have your level of insight or personal responsibility for health is paramount. I’ve already seen people in the comments saying they’re trying this and reducing their meds without supervision and that is so incredibly dangerous with serious mental illness.

[@Meggaaaaa]

Exactly what I’ve been thinking but haven’t found the right words to say!

[@OfficialRogue]

That's not an experiment... that's a real case study, often a "double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial" is probably what you're thinking of. An experiment is not the technical term, and can refer to anything you do to test something and find out the outcomes. It's a colloquial term, which is appropriate here. She is not doing a LITERAL study and controlling for all confounding variables in a medical setting or anything like you've interpreted it. She NEVER claimed to be doing a case-study (anecdotal or not) and you're acting like she did, which is unfair. She is releasing this content on KZbin it's OBVIOUSLY not a formal study like why are we even arguing this? A study implies a lot more than this and follows academic standards and protocols... this is simply an experiment like she called it in the first place, and obviously it's anecdotal and has never been presented otherwise... However, there is still tremendous value just in her individual endeavor on its own, as a KZbin video from an individual suffering from schizoaffective disorder, and is just another video like all the other ones she's been making for years. I invite you to look inward as to why it would strike a cord like this... you are putting a lot of words in her mouth. "It's working for me" never means "ALSO EVERYONE ELSE SHOULD DO IT!", precisely the opposite. Why are we also omitting that she always says she's doing it under the professional supervision of her psychiatrist? Why are we discounting that it's literally a medical intervention and not just the colloquial "keto" fad diet? If anything it's a good thing that she's educating and helping more people learn about it, and possibly discuss it with their doctors as a potential treatment option, if needed or even possible, if the time is right, if there are no better alternatives, etc. It's not a bad thing to have more options and I don't know why you are holding her to some insane standard. I suspect you'll then go on anyone's channel who talks about their experiences with mental illness and when they bring up trying psych meds or other interventions like ECT etc. and comment why are they saying it worked for them and why aren't they putting a disclaimer etc... if anything I think it would be more appropriate there, because Lauren is already being nuanced and cautious enough about it if you watch her videos, but somehow we're ignoring that and are holding her to a crazy standard because it struck a cord for some reason... 🤷‍♂

[@SH-mx7hk]

@@OfficialRogue I’m sorry, but you are incorrect. An experiment is not a colloquial term. It is a type of study and there are two experimental types; controlled as you described, and field. And why am I concerned? Because this is NOT just a random KZbinr sharing her experience with doing this in a blasé way, she continually refers back to the fact that this is medical treatment and she speaks with an air of authority, with someone who is well educated, and she is. Her viewers trust her. One thing I agree with you on is that people have their own personal responsibility for their health and if people do something badly for themselves after seeing a person on KZbin treat Schizophrenia with keto that is essentially “their problem”. If I saw people vlogging about their evidence based medicine trials as you said, I would likely say nothing. ECT and meds have decades of robust evidence. Keto does not. Maybe I am holding her to a higher standard, but it’s only because I have watched her for years and she has always maintained herself as a voice of reason and evidence. She has university level education in mental health and social work courses and knows what she’s talking about. So people respect her because she is so well educated and presents herself in a certain way (eg, well dressed, nice house and loving family). I also said in my comment that I acknowledge she was doing it under her doctor’s supervision. I’ve watched all of her keto videos and I’m incredibly happy for her. But I’m also super worried about people trying this on their own because of the influence and when I see Lauren liking comments about that, it seems like encouragement. In all, maybe I’m not giving people their autonomy to do what they want, and I’m not letting Lauren just do what she wants. I could be! My two cents are that absolutely nobody should be doing this if they are not in an amazing place where they can have the ability to maintain this complex diet, have support if it goes wrong, have a psych on call, have a therapist and a loving family. Those are extremely protective factors, if this works at all and is not in fact, a placebo effect.

[@Nikkers8]

At no point has Lauren presented this as anything other than her own individual experience. The word experiment does not inherently imply a scientific study, nor is there any implication she is conducting a study. She always tells her audience to consult their psychiatrist and cannot control commenters who are adjusting meds irresponsibly.

[@PlasticSinks]

I think Lauren has done a good job at communicating things as clearly as she can for someone who isnt scholar or researcher on the matters at hand and at the same time being someone who is seeing real life changes in their life. I am somewhat disappointed at how Dr Chris Palmer does it. Its so blindly hopeful. Dr Bret also had some language that I found questionable calling ketogenic diet a "treatment". Im glad we have passionate people studying these things but I think researchers should be mindful and responsible when taking about their field.

[@kylie4568]

I'm generally skeptical about ketogenic diets. However, there's some scientific backing for its usefulness in schizophrenia, and I sincerely hope it works for you. Don't let strangers on the internet determine how you deal with your symptoms. As far as I'm concerned, we're just lucky we get to come along for your journey.

[@TheNaprika]

Agreed!

[@hopegold883]

I skeptical of keto too, and of any one who says all you have to do is change your diet to heal any serious health issue. Up till now, I was impressed with this because the results are obvious, and she’s not selling anything. But in this video, she’s really trying to get others to do the same thing. What if it doesn’t work the same for everybody?

[@juliej5917]

@@hopegold883Then they shouldn’t be on Keto. But isn’t it worth the try? Nothing works for everyone.

[@LWT1331]

There's scientific backing for it in general. Not just for schizophrenia. Just saying. If anything the mediterranean diet is lacking in the research department.

[@neeko4676]

I agree, it feels like medical advice even though I know it's not her intention.

[@Thunderfoks]

I’ve been inspired by your journey - and so I went back on keto myself (I also have schizoaffective disorder). The improvements to my quality of life have been dramatic: energy, mood, mental acuity, social function, verbal fluency, no more positive symptoms. I feel empowered and have been getting back to what it was like before I was diagnosed - call it remission. Sure, there’s a level of restriction/discipline involved, but trust me the “sacrifices” are far worth it. I had been suffering for so long that I forgot what life was supposed to be like.

[@mvictorcal]

There is a new randomized clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of medical ketogenic diet for severe mental illness. This is not a fad but even if it were & by chance it alleviates mental illness, then how is this bad? Thank you for being so caring as to want to help others understand. That said, this is working for you and so for your family, so it would be sad for you to lose this opportunity because people are scared and judgy. I saw schizophrenia meds produce metabolic syndrome on my brother & rob him of his verbal skills. Yes, many symptoms got better but there was a cost and I would have loved for him to try this but he lost his life much too young. I pray you continue to be well using these medical interventions! Hugs & admiration 🙏🏼💗

[@shbema]

I think people are very resistant to change and because medical keto for mental illness is such a new thing there is a lot of suspicion and skepticism. However the little bit of data coming out is showing amazing results. Good luck with your journey and may you go from strength to strength.

[@beab4541]

You are an amazing human being, kind, intelligent, sensible, humble and lots more. Keep bringing your superb content to us, whatever you see fit to talk about and inform us about. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about it. Much love.

[@kata6966]

You are awesome!! From a parent of a son who is struggling with mental illness, I am grateful for your transparency. Thank you for giving us hope and thank you for being you.

[@maggiej6717]

I have been on a Keto diet for about four years. I have Bipolar disorder, and I’m at my best on Keto. Thank you for bringing awareness to this life style. It works!

[@melodypanek448]

I must admit that when you first started this keto diet, I was very very skeptical in that I didn't think it would help alleviate your psychiatric symptoms. I'm happily surprised that you have done so well on your new diet and you have helped to open my mind about alternative therapies. I really hope and wish you continued wellness! I will be continuing to watch your channel with great interest!

[@robertwhiteley-yv1sy]

I started to try keto because I developed terrible autoimmune problems. I wouldn’t describe my diet as keto, it’s more carnivore. But I went through three years seriously considering suicide because the pain was constant and now it’s gone because of my diet. I doubted that a simple change of diet would make a difference but desperation and no other options pushed me in that direction. I won’t say that it’s a magical bullet and it can solve all health issues, but it saved me. You have every right to be skeptical but it worked for me.

[@ingridavainauskaite4674]

You wrong keto diet with intermittent fasting for 20hours will help me to be in remision without medication

[@robertwhiteley-yv1sy]

@@ingridavainauskaite4674 do you realise that medications and diets do not work the same for everyone?

[@oq13]

Something to strongly consider is that this goes far beyond you or even whether or not the general population can afford to do this on their own, and I think everyone needs to understand that. This type of research NEEDS to be part of the conversation for the future of mental health. If nothing else, what you’re sharing is extremely informative and could help change things on a bigger scale.

[@AnnePowell-y7m]

How do you make lifestyle changes like the keto diet when you struggle with chronic symptoms like lack of motivation, avolition, anhedonia, apathy, inertia, executive dysfunction, and you don’t have someone in your life to help you implement these lifestyle changes? That is my barrier to keto and other metabolic therapies such as exercise. Not money. Not fear. I fail at every New Year’s resolution, but I’m never going to give up on myself!! These are REAL symptoms, not a moral failing. Making healthy lifestyle changes is soooo much harder than taking a pill, even for many neurotypical people! For metabolic therapies, it seems like you need to have decent amount of motivation in order to engage in the treatment protocols, yet debilitatingly low motivation is the exact symptom I want to TREAT! I would LOVE to see a video with tips on how to get around or over this hurdle, especially if you don’t live with a person who is willing to go on a keto diet with you and take care of all the details and planning, as I couldn’t summon the motivation to do it on my own. A keto coach would not be enough support for me personally as they wouldn’t be with me all the time (more of an advisor). It’s the daily little actions and follow throughs that I need support with the most. Without being pushed by external forces, I struggle to make myself even take a shower, to be honest. Showering just weirdly feels like so much effort. It’s so hard to explain this type of aversion towards “effort” if you haven’t experienced it, but Lauren’s old video with tips and tricks for how to maintain personal hygiene was helpful. Still love this channel!!

[@keepfitforunfitpunkswithdo3070]

Someone here who id's with everything you just said.. been keto on & off for 4 years.. still eating too much protein though, it takes a bit of time & study - I use my adhd ocd to obsess over it enough.. it's easier than taking a shower - I struggle with that too.. & I live alone... I obsess to stay carb free & do altermative things - some weeks I just eat peperamis & cheese & ham out of packets tbh.. but more often than not I do eggs & veg & parchment paper everything in the oven with a fk load of butter - staying hydrated is hard though - needing 4lts a day but I do it in liquids so tea/coffee & sugar free pop.. I'm also adhd & on spectrum (with just about everything) - I have a daily/weekly tick list on a white board - to see where I'm at rather than seeking perfection it helps a lot - I'm always trying & looking to see can I try a bit harder than aim for any perfection I can never find.. weight loss is super slow but not stagnant - but also a dozen conditions (inc pain condition & thyroid) are vastly improved

[@AnnePowell-y7m]

@@keepfitforunfitpunkswithdo3070 Helpful to know someone else relates. I’m soooo surprised more people aren’t talking about this. Maybe there's shame around it. Interesting that you’re able to leverage your OCD tendencies to your advantage by “obsessing” over being carb-free as a strategy for creating keto discipline (if I am understanding correctly). After I was diagnosed with ADHD, it was suggested that I use my assets/strengths to try to compensate for my deficits whenever possible (I did a full neuropsych exam). I don’t have OCD, but I’m still searching for my own “hidden advantage” in all this… like, ANY little thing about me (however weird or even ‘unhealthy’ it might sound from an outside perspective) that could be kind of tweaked or taken advantage of in some way that could help to me FOLLOW THROUGH on living a metabolically healthier lifestyle day-to-day. I need to be running on something other than “feelings of motivation” as my source of fuel, because cognitively, I might believe that there’s a "reward" to living a healthier lifestyle, but honestly, I don’t FEEL it. I don’t feel any sense of anticipation or pleasure in it. But that’s because the reward pathways in my brain are literally messed up!! I need to sleep better, too!! I really need a new bed, but I have procrastinated on shopping for one. I basically struggle with a huge lack of momentum to do things to HELP myself (when I was more functional, I used to at least get excited to try new things before petering out). Anyway, glad you found some creative strategies that work for you - they have given me food for thought (pun intended), so thanks for that! And I have now written a novel, LOL!

[@queenofdramatech]

I am very excited by this keto diet! Don't let people who disagree get you down. Please do what works for you.

[@Milana_Kay]

Second that!

[@NasAndChico]

I don’t understand why people are mad when someone tries to get better mental health wise. I was stuck at bad place even with medication + talk therapy. I eventually changed my psychiatrist and I do feel better now. If I had known about keto diet I would have tried it cause at that time it did feel like I tried everything I could. I’m so happy for you and you should absolutely not listen to negative people

[@AnnePowell-y7m]

Some people struggle to generate enough momentum to start and continue healthy lifestyle changes because they have symptoms like avolition, anhedonia, depression and can’t access enough motivation. These symptoms make it very difficult to engage in GOAL-DIRECTED behaviors, even if something seems like a great idea. For anyone who may be silently struggling with this and not commenting about it, I just wanted to say that I see you and I believe you. You are NOT lazy.

[@SpinningClouds]

Something you didn't address is how unsustainable this diet is long term. For example, you tried it before and quit. Radical diet changes like this are very difficult to keep up. Also, how alienating and all-consuming it is to participate in these radical diets.

[@doesnotFempute]

it's quite easy long term. There are millions of people who use this way of eating to manage diabetes, epilepsy, IBS, sjogrens and countless other conditions. It's obviously sustainable for her right now. So you just keep doing what works. Not rocket science.

[@neeko4676]

I agree. What happens long term.

[@aleksazunjic9672]

Diet is not so radical. In fact, many hunter/gatherer/shepherd societies would use similar diet during entire lifetime. With age of 80 not being uncommon.

[@user-wookim007]

My son who is autistic with some psychotic symptoms has been doing medical keto diet with the help of a keto diet psychiatrist and a nutritionist. My family can't believe my own son's dramatic changes. He has been taking two medications and today the doctor recommended to reduce one by 25 percent already since this medication is too much for him already. Keto diet is amazing life change diet. Thank you Lauren for sharing your experiences with keto. I watched all the videos and those were so helpful.

[@jan_ellison_baszucki]

What a wonderful story of healing. Thank you for sharing.

[@cactusloaf]

How do you respond to the criticism saying that you've consistentlly made it clear throughout the years on youtube that one of your symptoms is of complete avoidance/paranoia regarding your medication? Are you worried at all that you might be biased towards any potential treatment, regardless of evidence of efficacy, if it means going off medication?

[@emmaberger3748]

Yeah but as she said she’s not in psychosis and normally would be if she dropped her meds this low. Meds are great if they work and it’s also great if someone who doesn’t like them has found something that works better

[@aleksazunjic9672]

You do not need to apologize for anything you do to improve your health. You are not hurting anyone, it's your skin in the game. If it works, it works. If it does not work, ultimately only you and your family would pay the price. Those who do not like your content are not forced to watch it, and that is that.

[@lisajackson1964]

Thank you, Lauren. You have inspired us to try out Keto. My daughter has schizophrenia and we have our first call set up with a Keto counselor next week. It is a candle in the dark for us and we are loving to hear of your success. I have felt for a long time that we are really still in the dark ages of science, when it comes to mental health treatment and I think even 10 years from now, there will be a lot of changes. A lot of people really have no idea of what a person with psychosis suffers, but it’s been I’d been incredibly hard. You are providing a good service and it’s takes a lot of courage to put your private life out there, but it means a lot. Hope you have a blessed week and continued success with your wellness journey.

[@mayaholligan5487]

I love how you put yourself in the other person's shoes so well and manage not to become defensive ❤ Thank you so much for this amazing channel. I didn't know medical keto could be used for such a range of illnesses and it's been so useful to see your recent content as well.

[@averywillow4327]

Hi Lauren. I'm so happy this is working so well for you. That said, I'm still concerned with the presentation and fast flip of the channel. I've successfully used alternative diet based treatments for Crohn's but am way more careful when talking to others about using it as a treatment. It sounds like there is promise here but I believe that until there is more medical understanding there needs to be more guidance in navigating the path between medical guidance and alternative practitioners, some of whom can provide advice that is not strongly evidence based.

[@Nikkers8]

But the whole channel is has always been based on her lived experience which she is presenting in a responsible way.

[@averywillow4327]

@@Nikkers8 I agree there is nothing that Lauren has put out that has concerned me. I have the same concerns with navigating waters outside of conventional medicine across the board and they are based on my experience of doing so for over a decade. That said, my experience is mainly from seeking out treatment for crohn's so there might be more people pushing questionable alternative solutions there. Again, I don't think Lauren is pushing anything questionable, I've just found it to be something I have to be aware of when looking beyond standard medical advice and have had to learn that by trial and error over the years.

[@electrochoke9574]

I was on keto diet a long time ago to help with my autism, OCD and incontrollable motor movements. It did help a lot with those however the eating disorder aspect of it was hugely detrimental to me as an autistic person with lots of food aversions and sensitivities. After losing way too much weight and basically running out of fuel to move and think clearly I made a decision to stop following a keto diet. Coming off the keto diet caused a serious bout of depression and worsening OCD. I ended up being put on way too heavy psychiatric medication, gained way too much weight, slept way too much and was just miserable. After years of desperation I decided to take matter into my own hands. I started counting calories again but not limiting any sort of food. I eat whatever I wanted as long as it wasn't more than X calories. Just enough for me to get to a healthy weight gradually but still noticably. I weaned off the antipsychotic medication I was on at the same time. It worked out for me. I don't think about food anymore and am still able to maintain my weight. I'm still on a shit ton of meds but nothing that causes me to function worse in life. My OCD got much better through ACT(Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I'm still jerky and clumsy, I'm still autistic, I still have many bad days... but I've made peace with that and built a better support system, eventualy even managed to get a full time job which was something noone thought I could manage. I don't know what the point of all this is. I just think life really isn't all that black and white.

[@shawnmarieVnutrition]

I've been keto for many years. I believe in it so strongly that I'm studying to become a keto coach. I hear daily stories of transformation --- people who no longer have ADHD symptoms, healing anorexia, bulimia, putting bipolar, depression and anxiety into remission, reversing type 2 diabetes, reversing PCOS, healing infertility, reversing many autoimmune conditions, healing arthritis, IBS, Ulcerative Colitis, Hashimoto’s, GERD, and people going into remission from Cancer?? WHAT!!? This is no joke and people have got to start listening to the cutting edge thinkers and scientists instead of the idiots that want to see you sick, sell you drugs and fill your pantry with ultra processed food! I am so infuriated with people who call it a fad diet. It only means they don't understand it's power. I know it's not going to work for everyone, but imagine if it worked for half of us? It's staggering to think about. Imagine a world where the first line of defense against most chronic illness was to first change your diet? What would happen if many of us no longer needed SSRI’s, anti-psychotic meds, statins, high blood pressure meds, insulin, PPI's etc... You and your channel are a godsend and I know it will become a community that drives real change, so please don't stop fighting the good fight for all those who are suffering. You are giving many people hope for a brighter future.

[@Meggaaaaa]

@@sophcwyep , surprised she liked it too. There is so much we don’t understand about the body- especially gut issues and autoimmune issues. But to say it cures cancer is a reach, it’s dangerous, and downright offensive for cancer survivors

[@LWilkes]

@@sophcwThey never said “keto cures cancer.” They said they know of people whose cancer went into remission. Should they keep that a secret?

[@spencer5113]

You absolutely cannot cure most of the things you just listed with keto diet and is incredibly harmful. Arthritis? Hashimoto? I mean this is insane, those are fundamentally diseases that can’t be reversed. You are perpetuating harmful ideas. It’s one thing to find benefits with keto and another to be treating it like this, like some kind of cure all for everything. And the idea that meds have no uses and are simply existing to benefit the pockets of others betrays the idea that these meds do benefit alot of people. Also, one of the biggest purporters of keto diet for mental illness is Chris Palmer who has been found to promote harmful and offensive ideas about autism and has misunderstood or exaggerated research findings. Maybe keto is useful but it’s neither a cure all nor does it even have extensive quality research to back it as a replacement for all meds. It is useful, but you are running way too far with it and it’s concerningly harmful.

[@Haliotro]

​@LWilkes maybe it's coincidence? Should we act like any old coincidence is causal rather than associative?

[@fibretowne]

@@sophcwThe results are based on a person’s labs, and no longer being symptomatic, which is a valid contribution to this conversation.

[@VaniceS]

Hi Lauren, I just want to say that I'm so happy your life has improved so dramatically with your medical keto diet. My daughter was diagnosed 5 years ago with schizoaffective disorder and has had rough time over the years. I love that you're sharing your journey through this intervention and am trying to figure out how I can help my daughter access the same plan under a limited income as she's now on government income support. She now lives with her man friend but struggles as so many do with living costs. I want to encourage you to continue with your journey but maybe you could have info and guests that will also support the people who are still struggling with their diagnosis and aren't yet ready to try a ground breaking treatment. Your channel has been a huge support to them and I think they may come around if you're offering both sides of the experiences you've had. I think you're definitely a brave strong individual who has become more so in your discussions on your channel and I know you can continue to help others and yourself in your Living We'll with Schizophrenia. Thank you so much to you and Rob for living a brave life on this channel, it's not easy to get criticism and you're handling with grace which is a huge achievement in my opinion. All the Best to you, Rob, and Family Take good care! Vanice

[@Dead-ladybug]

You have my support! I do not have schizophrenia but I do have self control issues, depression and anger issues and I've been on keto for about 4 months and I feel like a new person, a better person. The keto diet really does change your brain and body and you have my%100 support!!

[@a.w.j.pilgrim]

I’m really happy for you. I have experienced exactly the same thing with my whole food plant based vegan diet. My schizophrenia has gone into remission too. I feel great. I also take a depot of rasperidone every three months. I want to go on the 6 month depot soon. The great thing about my diet is there is no cruelty to any animals as well. So my concience is clear which I’m sure helps. Wishing you continued happiness. All the best. Thanks for you videos.

[@CourageousDissociation]

My whole food plant based diet has not been helpful for my symptoms :(

[@PaulC394]

Lauren, it is totally up to you what treatment you will use to mitigate your symptoms. From what you have shared with us the keto diet is working for you. So I say all the power to you. Continued success in your keto treatment and on to great health in body and mind.

[@user-ft8gr7vq5d]

We have two questions now keto has been successful for you. 1. It will be interesting to see how far you can push the new you. We know previous employment and your previous schooling had to stop as it was too much alongside schizoaffective. So what will happen if you take on more and return to education etc, will there a limit before symptoms creep back in when stress builds etc, is there any research on this. 2. Do you think it will be more difficult to make relatable content if you are no longer experiencing the illness. Its fantastic that keto has worked for you and my wife is looking into it with her supportive team for her. We enjoy the old content and look forward to it feeding back in alongside keto.

[@reevesranch5]

You are one Amazing Young Woman making a huge difference w all people, care givers, and family members dealing w loved ones who have been tormented by this diagnosis! Thank You Thank You for sharing your life w us-We Love You! ~the Reeves Family

[@beachysands4036]

Fascinating discussion as usual. I’m thrilled you are seeing such improvement in your life and that you are sharing it with your viewers. You have given me much to think about. Thank you!!

[@OfficialRogue]

I really have trouble understanding how people can misinterpret it like that. She is literally just presenting it as an additional option and solution that has worked for him to treat HER schizoaffective disorder, and she never suggested anyone go off their meds, she is literally advising against that in fact. All she said, is that it did help reduce her dose, and for the first time not experience a relapse of symptoms while doing that. ALL DONE *under her psychiatrist's supervision* and never on her own. It has also helped many people get off their meds completely (still under Dr's supervision, always), so idk why deny those facts or be so resistant to accept them. It doesn't mean that that's the only or best option that you have to do now or else. It means it's one more tool/therapy that you can try especially if all else fails and it's never a bad thing to have at your disposal. I have bipolar disorder myself and do not follow the medical keto diet and don't feel threatened by what she is telling us. I think it's great that it's potentially an additional option to try, either with meds, or allowing the ability to reduce or discontinue them when possible, and under professional supervision, and it's never something that is done overnight.

[@Amber24426]

Unfortunately many people have a rigid perspective on what mental health treatment “should” look like, so when individuals like Lauren show that a lesser pursued option is helping her to drastically restabilize her mental health, a lot of people take issue with that. It kind of reminds me of how people can be when someone in their social circle starts to eat healthier and feel better- they themselves begin to feel targeted simply by the mere *presence* of that person in their company, even if that person is not pushing their lifestyle changes on anyone in any way. I think the truth is that many people will default to feeling significantly threatened when someone similar to them demonstrates that there is another viable way to live that fundamentally deviates from how they themselves do. Lauren’s mere presence and perspective “forces” people to reflect on their own ways of dealing with their mental health, and evidently this brings about a lot of discomfort and unease. Criticizing or mocking Lauren’s approach is a way for them to stuff their own vulnerability down, far away from their conscience. They can then project all of their nitpicking on someone like Lauren, rather than on themselves. Sorry, your comment just really made me want to write all of this out! It’s very interesting but also a bit disheartening to think about what seems to be playing out here.

[@suzannealsop3394]

Great this appears to be working for you so far and interesting how there are other ways to treat mental illness other than meds. I volunteer at a mental health museum which used to be a mental hospital in the victorian era before they had medications.47% of the patients got well and never returned again. This was achieved through rest, good nutritious food, pleasant surroundings in nature, church, social activities and occupation. All good, healthy things for mind, body and soul 💚

[@Catlily5]

What illnesses did they have?

[@TheTurbocheetah]

Hey Lauren, thanks for making this video, it was interesting to hear your perspective on some of the criticisms. I wanted to firstly say I enjoyed the majority of the video. However, I did have one concern. Around the 9 minute mark when answering the question “my meds are working just fine, why should I try this” you state that anti-psychotics have a known list of long term effects and people (perhaps doctors?) should be open to other treatment approaches. I agree with this from a theoretical perspective. However, the way you phrased the reply to this criticism had me a little bit concerned. Some of your viewers have stated that considering their own personal journey, they feel like using keto would be too much of a risk for them. I think if viewers have weighed up the risks and benefits of keto for themselves and decided keto is not appropriate for them this this boundary should absolutely be respected. Just as viewers should respect your journey to use keto. I think attempting to persuade viewers to try keto is a step too far (if this was not your intention, I do apologise, I am just working off of my interpretation of the phrasing in the video). I understand this recommendation to viewers comes from a good place as a result of keto dramatically improving your symptoms and quality of life, and wanting to help viewers feel the best they can. However, I think this is where people find issue with individuals on the internet (whether it be appropriately qualified doctors or researchers or regular influencers who have had a positive experience) recommending keto - it is often portrayed as a miracle ‘one size fits all’ cure that is appropriate for everyone. Unfortunately this is likely not the case, and could indeed come with significant risks. I think it is important to be mindful that there is no one ‘right’ model, whether it be medication, psychotherapy, diet or something else. Everyone is so individual and their choices should be respected. One could almost draw a parallel here to the use of psych meds. Many individuals who, for example, had a positive experience with an SSRI for depression might try to persuade you to take one based on the research and their own experience with the medication. If you then decided for whatever reason you did not want to take an SSRI, I personally would find it inappropriate for the individual who first suggested the use of an SSRI to keep suggesting its use, given that you had set a boundary that you did not want to try it. (In this example I am assuming the person recommending the SSRI to be a lay-person, not a psychiatrist). Whilst Bryan Johnsons thought experiment is interesting, the truth is that as things stand we don’t have the information to assess which treatment approach is ideal for all individuals, so I think we do need to respect individual’s autonomy and have some epistemic humility in not assuming any approach is the best approach for a given individual.

[@80islandia]

I think this is very well stated. I also am supportive of individualized treatment plans and, while I support Lauren’s personal journey 100%, do not want to be “pitched” keto as a one-sized fits all solution.

[@neeko4676]

I agree with this. I think it’s great that she’s trying something new, but saying to the viewers that medicine is pushed by the pharmaceutical company is a bit scary. It’s dangerous because that can play into viewers paranoia. And the times she was going into an episode she did not want to take medicine. 3 months is way too short to know if she’s been in remission, especially since she had a really bad episode two months before she went on this keto diet.

[@80islandia]

@@neeko4676 Hey there, I made the comment above yours. While I see where you’re coming from, I actually think the statement about the pharmaceutical industry was a fair and true one. What I was noticing from the video (and resonating with in the comment above) was a shift in tone from, “this is what’s helping me, but by all means do what works for you,” to “you may want to reconsider your treatment plan based on what’s worked for me thus far.” Speaking as someone who has a schizoaffective diagnosis and has been successfully med-free for five years, I think there definitely are legitimate reasons to select alternate treatment plans. I also think that adhering to meds is a valid choice. What I hope to drive home is that treatment plans should be tailored to the individual, and we shouldn’t be promoting a “right” way or a “wrong” way for people to be making decisions about medication compliance.

[@shastaacker6060]

For real you have saved me a lot of money by doing this. I was going to buy all of the ketone monitoring devices to find out which ones worked, and you did that for me. Hence, I will be donating because I appreciate what you've done here.

[@ruthyaya]

People are invested in their beliefs and are going to believe whatever they want. Please continue to do what works for you. You can’t convince everybody. Continue to prioritize your own healing and welling. Everyone’s on their own journey and is responsible for their own decisions.

[@MrZerohour1967]

I've watched quite a number of your videos now, more out of curiosity about what it's like to live with this condition, as I don't suffer with it myself. I just wanted to thank you for sharing so opening about your journey, and to offer some words of encouragement as you try different methods to manage your symptoms. I do understand why you would want to reduce your dependence on medication, and I hope the positive results you've see thus far continue. I hope you don't let criticism you speak of get you down, and I wish you all the best as you continue to try this and any other new options that might work for you. You and Rob seem intelligent and articulate, and I'm sure you're both more than capable of working though any issues should they arise. You go girl!

[@FortitudeAndResiliencee]

Hey there! Your courage to share your journey with medical keto for schizoaffective disorder is inspiring. It's understandable that there's debate around it. Keep leading with your experience--it's sparking valuable conversations. Wishing you continued wellness and open dialogue.

[@sarahizmeth616]

I have been following the keto diet since October 2023. I have noticed a dramatic decrease in symptoms. Also I recently cheated a bit and had a little carbs and sweets. My symptoms immediately exacerbated until I restricted my diet again. This was more than enough proof that it is the keto diet that has helped my symptoms become less frequent.

[@felicitythomson3397]

Yes, and the slip up made you stringer too, I bet !! Well done!! We are starting our keto journey now, this week, slowly easing into it. Hoping it will help my son.

[@evemacdonald8654]

I think what you are doing is so helpful for those who might benefit from it as well as to help make changes in our health care system since once someone is invested as a medical provider, it is very difficult to help clients with new options if they are not supported by the institutions that they represent. So this gives everyone a chance to grow and learn at a pace that might not otherwise be able to happen. So thank you so much for taking the risk and being willing to post about how it goes; good or bad. Whatever the results, this is a win for everyone! And how great is it that it is actually going well!! 🙏🥳

[@PureMischiefAliCarter]

I will repeat this warning i lost my partner in a moment in a hospital in psychosis he didnt trust the meds, it was part of his and many delusions with schizophrenia. Your excitement over thinking you know better is s reminder and trigger for me when in that moment your gone, families dont recover from the guilt. Its too late once someones gone seriously dont do this on a channel please

[@dianeaishamonday9125]

Your feelings are not her responsibility. They are yours.

[@PureMischiefAliCarter]

@@dianeaishamonday9125 not feelings just facts and my opinion.

[@dievalie]

So, as far as I know, the Keto diet is not designed to be a longterm diet. I am just curious whether I am right with this assumption and what to do if my assumption is true. Will schizophrenia be coming back as soon as I stop the Keto diet? Thank you so much for sharing such valuable information!

[@maryannscott5567]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR HEALING JOURNEY. It gives me such hope for all those suffering from chronic mood and physical dis-eases.

[@brandymariee]

You are doing this very responsibly, in my opinion. I'm happy you are finding relief and a more balanced treatment that you're comfortable with!

[@montyollie]

I would say one of the criticisms is that you might be using it to reduce your schizo affective disorder symptoms... which is all well and good and within the parameters of this channel... but why is Rob doing it? This is where it turns into lifestyle choice and not about tackling your personal health. People who go on successful diets usually are very evangelical about them until... they stop working. I didn't know you'd previously had an eating disorder. I have one, and any kind of food restriction or forced ingestion is very triggering to me. I can see why this shift has turned off a lot of viewers for whom this might be the case for them, as well.

[@OfficialRogue]

Rob is doing it out of support for his partner, to go on that journey together... it's his own choice to be a loving and supporting partner all the way, but he didn't have to. Why is that a problem? If anything it's shown it's helped her more as someone with a mental illness, since she's experienced a lot more benefits than he has so far.

[@Gondimgondim831]

In 2022, I bought the Brain Energy audiobook and we were inspired to try a keto diet for my son. I made several recipes like chaffles (almond flour waffle + cheese), fat bombs, bought those keto wraps, from costco and we ended up gaining even more weight. We were so lost and gave up with keto. We were doing on our own. Because of Lauren I now understand how to get started. We're waiting for the doc's feedback. My fingers are crossed.... This is the message folks, if you are ever willing to try this you need your health practitioner on board as well.

[@yayitzln]

Same! Still struggling with figuring out diet. But diagnosis diet has some recipes (brett scher and georgia ede started on there a few years ago- before brett scher used to promote Keto for reversing T2 Diabetes. Georgia Ede just wrote a book as well.

[@Divinefapper]

I saw Chris Palmers visit on Huberman lab a year ago, and hopped on the ketogenic diet as a last ditch effort to cure my numerous mental health issues and physical issues - and if this wasn't going to work, I was ready to kill myself. And it worked. Adhd, aspergers, arthritis, parasomnias, daily panic attacks, depression, general anxiety, psychotic episodes, misophonia, skin picking.. Everything in remission. I mean, I still have ADHD and aspergers, but they are in way better control than they have ever been. I never knew my brain could function this properly. The clarity. No longer constant negative thoughts. Just a clear mind. This man literally saved my life. People will always find reasons to hate. I love my restored mental health and highly suggest everyone who suffer from similar issues to try ketosis properly (buy a blood ketone meter and give it 1-3 months). Some people are way too stuck on the idea that only pills can be proper medical treatment, and that everything else is snake oil. There's a reason why ketosis works better on epilepsy than any available pill.

[@Divinefapper]

@@abella11 Yes, I'm still on it. :) Male, 31. Been on keto for 1 year 4 months now. When I first started, I used to do cheat days, but my brain always reacted negatively, so I don't see it worth to suffer for weeks for taking a cheat day. I've currently been in deep ketosis for 4 months straight. Planning on having a cheat day when I hit the half year mark and then going right back into deep ketosis. :) For convenience sake, I've been high fat keto carnivore for the last 4 months. 2,5mmol ketones in blood at most times. Now my 'cheat' days are just regular keto. I've always lifted weights, so I'm quite big, but always struggled to lose weight. Now I've dropped tons of fat to the point where I have a 6-pack without any effort. I still eat around 3000kcal a day, from which 2000 are from fat. And I'm rarely ever 'hungry hungry'. It's all just so effortless.

[@Joel-tc6cc]

Amazing to hear, I'm incredibly happy for you. I've been on a low carb / keto diet for 7 years now, and I'm never going back. Dramatic improvement in mental and physical health. My sister is bipolar (genetic it seems), recently started keto and has been steady ever since.

[@jodybennett8800]

It may be helpful to present some of the scientific evidence that does not support the ketogenic diet, both in terms of mental health as well as long term physical health, in order to provide a more balanced perspective.

[@lisaterry9217]

I support you 100% for trying keto. I'm recovering from breast cancer and it has done wonders for me. You have to do what's best for you and I hope you have great success with it. In the end the cost does come down when you become adjusted to it.❤❤❤

[@sand352]

Hi from Russia! Thank you for your channel and being so brave.I'm so happy that keto helps you!

[@ViorelaPop-hw3ew]

Hi Lauren! I've found your channel few years ago. I must admit didn't trust so much your content at that time specifically because your were talking then only about how important the medication was while I felt so sedated by it (I was taking Risperidone and Abilify). I switched to only Abilify in 2021 and it did not sedate me but I became pre-diabetic because of it and put on 40 kilos. Abilify has tremendously increased my appetite and here I am with insulin resistance. When I've heard you've started keto, which I've heard of 5-6 years ago but was afraid to try because everyone around me : family and medical doctors would discourage me I got enthousiastic about your channel. And now are three months since I regularly check your videos and next week I have appointment to a nutritionist to start the medical ketogenic diet. Hope that goes well! Thank you for the inspiration! PS: I do love my autonomy and I'm not a huge fan of AI taking over but with ketogenic diet I consider is a must try. After all , after I've been diagnosed with psychotic disorder I've dreamed only to get off my medication because side effects are not easy. But just like you I was not able because I would get psychotic episodes. I hope I will be able to reduce or get rid off my medication in time after starting keto diet. I'm not saying I would directly jump to cut medication. But if that would happen and I will be able to reduce it at least I would be the happiest. Wish you an everyone on this channel good health!

[@amyjones8613]

I am one of those who think keto isn't for me. I think its too restricted and believe medicine is best for me. My doctor thinks so too. Im on invega sustenna every 3 weeks and get special insurance to cover it. I am glad keto works for you, though.

[@ThomasMuethingDotCom]

I’m really glad this has worked for you. It’s worth noting that in order to properly do this holistic approach to schizophrenia spectrum illnesses, you do have to fit certain social determinants of health, not just financially, but the ability to work with a team who will work with you to improve your quality of life. Ultimately, that’s what healthcare endeavoura to do, either allopathically or osteopathically. This video makes a really good point that you’re still on neuroleptic medication. Chronic psychosis being as disabling as it is, I’m glad you’re doing better. I would be very interested in seeing if you have ever done a formal sleep study because schizophrenia’s neurology does affect sleep-would be super interesting to see if there has been neurological changes. Ultimately, whether you have schizophrenia or another mental or physical illness, it’s managed - not cured.

[@SheriMorgan-l8i]

One of your best videos Lauren! Great perspective and your proving the theory from amazing doctors… very motivating to help me stay on Carnivore to beat my eating disorder! You’re amazing!

[@eemiaa10]

I think the loss of autonomy and fear of giving up comfort is a good point! It seems that this facet could be playing a stronger role in the community's aversion to the change in content than we realize. I appreciate this discussion. ❤

[@robertwhiteley-yv1sy]

One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn in my life is that people want you to do better, just not better than them. Feeling like you have to explain and apologise for no longer suffering is not ok.

[@robertwhiteley-yv1sy]

@@Only1You_ the studies on keto show promise and have merit. Lauren seems to be experiencing those benefits. I guess my question to you is, if you were a doctor and they were trying a new therapy to shrink a tumour. Why would you want to stop a therapy that is working? Lauren has people around her to support her so if things don’t work out then her family will catch her

[@robertwhiteley-yv1sy]

@@Only1You_ what about them? Lauren is having success, why are you so convinced that it wouldn’t help someone else? Two years ago I had severe autoimmune problems so I tried keto and saw a reduction in symptoms. I then went to carnivore and the agony I was in is gone. I resumed my old diet and the symptoms returned. This is all the proof I require. You would see me and others suffer because you cannot comprehend alternatives that may be better than a pill.

[@ScuzzyMcDumplings]

Lauren, if you find that keto works for you, keep it up! Different things works for different people, and I think it’s important to stress that it’s perfectly okay to explore options that will work well for us as individuals. And it’s important to reevaluate how we’re feeling often! And if there’s a concern, it’s okay to pursue other options, discuss going up or down on meds, therapy, diet, etc. We know ourselves best. I’ll share that I have BP with psychotic features. I did strict keto for several years (with meds and therapy), but I truly saw improvement once I stopped stressing over living the keto lifestyle. It started to feel obsessive and maladaptive - that in itself made me feel a loss of autonomy and was actually hurting my mental health. I still strive to maintain a pretty healthy lifestyle - I primarily lift weights 5x a week, I love to take long walks while listening to music, eat reasonably, and I am on fewer psych meds that I’ve been on in a decade. But I’m always aware that things could change for the better … or worse. We all just have to do our best with our own mental health. If it IS a placebo effect …. Who cares? You are feeling better regardless! But that doesn’t mean it’ll work for everyone. Kudos to you for stressing that keto is not necessarily a swap for meds/other treatment but that it can be used in tandem if it works best for someone. Btw - you look much brighter and healthier here than in the past. :)

[@80islandia]

This is such a balanced perspective! Thank you for sharing your personal experience and what worked for you.

[@dragonfly1810]

Thank you for sharing and bent so open with your followers. If people do not like what you share they can unfollow. I am always hoping to find ways to help my son. You give hope

[@robertsole9970]

We people go off their meds…we all know what happens. My mom was a psych nurse for many years, saw the same patients get admitted to the state hospital over and over….they take meds and possibly diet changes….feel great and function well….so well they stop the meds, crash hard then have to be admitted to the state psych hospital…..

[@doesnotFempute]

ok and she's still taking her medication, so why are you indulging a fantasy situation which doesn't apply to this Lauren or anything she's talking about?

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

its also because the anti psycotics are a really had medicine. The side effecs are that hard that sometimes we have to quit. Its waiting for a better medication like KarXT

[@kareendeveraux1847]

You can't coldturkey them. They need to be tapered off very slowly. Even people who have been prescribed them for insomnia develop withdrawal psychosis (or seizures) if not tapered. It should be around 5-10% reduction of the previous dose per month. There are guides in online forums, though.

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

@@kareendeveraux1847 Can you imagine. Someone prescring anti psycotics for imsonaia. Anti Psycotics have terrible side effects and cause brain damage. can you imagine how evil this world is

[@80islandia]

And sometimes it doesn’t happen that way. When I went off meds five years ago, I was warned that “you’re just going to end up back in the hospital.” Turned out what I needed was trauma-competent, abuse-literate care… which seems like a no-brainer, but the medical model hasn’t caught up yet (or is simply too enmeshed with pharma to admit that there is an ethics problem). Still off meds, gotten to the root of my delusions, and no re-hospitalization to date.

[@daymaramos7144]

I'm proud of your determination and strength and look forward to listening to your videos Lauren❤

[@minivegan]

Thank you for documenting your journey. I have learned a lot and have been researching different methods of managing mental illness. I bought Dr. Plamer's book as well. I, for one, appreciate you sharing your experience. You have been very responsible in presenting the information. I appreciate you!

[@allieneverything]

Firstly I just want to compliment you on the constant calmness and grace you showed while making this video. To me, I believe that medicine is the “quickest fix” to my sza and unfortunately, and fortunately, this quickest fix is probably the best thing for me. The metabolic keto diet could be an experiment that helps sza or not- it certainly is not going to hurt it. I think some people, my self included, would just give up if I didn’t see some “quick fix” improvement like my meds give

[@barefootlumberjack]

You're so kind and patient. Read Dr. Georgia Ede's book "Change your diet, change your mind" for more in depth information on this topic, including plant antinutrents to watch out for. Keep going

[@danaakon7633]

Most people I know with severe mental illness such as Schizophrenia are low income. So, your new approach and direction is no longer relatable. How can you afford medical keto? Do you have spousal or generational wealth? I am curious.

[@dianeaishamonday9125]

She ALREADY answered this question!!!!! In a previous video!!! Pay attention!!!!!!!

[@kelleysmith5055]

I am so happy for you!! This gives me so much hope for my life and my sons. Thank you for being so open and transparent.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@nitonixnitron5569]

Keep doing what you're doing! For an intelligent person, there's no question that what you're doing is the most obvious and best option. You have everything to gain, and nothing to lose, in my opinion

[@Meggaaaaa]

I’m so glad it’s working for her but the influx of videos defending it feels a bit out of touch? This is NOT going to work for everyone. And I would guess she has not been on it long enough and spent enough time on reduced meds to really understand if it’s worked or not.

[@graesonhowland7127]

I’ve been carnivore/animal-based for 3 years. Put my anxiety/depression in remission within 3 days. Never looked back. So so amazing.

[@swaagaa]

I think some people have forgotten that this was intended as a "medical diet". Initially for epilepsy, but medication for epilepsy works for mental health issues so later one has found out that keto also works for other brain disorders. This is your life and your health and I think it's great that you're trying everything you can and also making the information available online so other people can have access. I'm rooting for this having a good effect on you! I have both epilepsy and schizophrenia and I'm very into your journey and considering it myself. Thank you for sharing!

[@RebecaLobato-Rua]

I think you're setting a great example for people living with mental health disorders. You're using this platform responsibly and have the best intentions. And that's all that matters :)

[@vavaseaur]

I love your videos! I have ADHD and I am distracted to some degree most of the time and my mind races constantly but it's very easy for me to watch your videos and be able to pay attention and hear most of what you say! I love how discriptive you are when sharing your experiences and that makes it alot easier to stay focused when watching your videos! I'm so glad that you found a natural alternative to minimize your symptoms and are doing well! I hope it continues to work for you! 🤗💖💖

[@gis4giraffe]

You are always very well spoken and very kind with your words towards the community especially those who are struggling with your improvement

[@annettemonty7350]

I am so happy you are sharing your life story, getting healthier…. You got this!!! Husband and I have been carnivore for 124 days and he is in his 60’s and myself 58…. So many great things happening to us. Share away!!! ❤

[@paulievew]

You do YOU. Absolutely *no one* knows you like *you* do. As someone with a bipolar, then schizophrenia, and most recently schizoeffective disorder over 30 years, please believe that since you are aware of yourself (as you obviously are), follow your heart. Sounds to us like you're on the right path for YOU.

[@chriscutler8025]

Loren I Was Resistant To Meds But Am On Doses Are Ok Now. I Appreciate That You Are Sharing This Is Working Well Medical Keto. I Think You Would Support It is Each Person's Choice With Medical Consult. Continued Success

[@nickynisbet6247]

Lauren thanks for your articulate, measured, balanced feedback. I look forward to following your ongoing journey with Rob and the kids ❤ x

[@MostlyCloudy]

Good for you. Don't let the bullies get you down. Can't wait to see your progress. ❤

[@felicitythomson3397]

Thankyou for this. We are going on this therapeutic diet for my sons mental health. I have presented this discussion to his team. After reading the research, I can only see positives in this move. I veiw it as feeding his brain properly. I'm in Australia and the Keto diets for mental health havnt really been accepted in the mainstream here, but I have found an enthusiastic naturapath who writes a keto plan and supports. All by zoom. We have a NDIS here which have helped with some costs with specialist. I am very grateful of you sharing, especially the extra electrolytes and supplements for schizophrenia brain health. As a Mum you're going to try everything to help your son. As for other people's responses, sometimes its very hard to accept that you can get better. and not just better but start reducing medications (slowly carefully under doctors advice) bty I love carbs tooo much but I think I like my sons future health better!!!

[@GizelleQuant]

Good luck.

[@felicitythomson3397]

Thanks! We're doing a gradual slide into keto. So, early stages. Plus, slowly making any carbs in pantry disappear... Giving to friends, etc😅

[@ExpressThrough]

Hey Lauren, I just wanted to drop by and say that if there is a regiment you can follow that has the potential to reduce or put your symptoms into remission then why not? And to share the journey is a service to people, like myself, that are also struggling with schizophrenia. It gives us a different blueprint to tackle this illness with. For the people that find this season of your life not helpful, they could simply go somewhere else for content that suits their pallet. Or they could watch your old content. I’m not trying to come off as mean, I’m just stating that you don’t have to please people. I think you already understand that, but I thought it would be fitting to add that in. Best of luck on your journey, and I can’t wait to see what the 6 month mark looks like! Stay happy, stay well :)

[@57mamabear]

Brilliant video! You are such a good communicator. I am coming to the realisation that keto suits me and helps reduce my chronic fatigue symptoms. As a sugar addict I do fall off the wagon frequently but your content is encouraging me just to keep getting back on. So, thank you for that.

[@nickynisbet6247]

Lauren your Keto journey has really supported me on my own keto path. I do feel that I'm gaining much more than I'm loosing. Keep going, I look forward to your future videos. Much love from Scotland 🎄🌈🦋 xx

[@ksdgypsy63]

I am totally celebrating this success you are having!!! This is an n=1 experiment that you are doing for you alone. Looking forward to all the next videos.

[@juliej5917]

I just read an article stating the benefits of Keto as a way to manage mental illness, published by Stanford University, one of the premiere academic medical institutions in the US. I am so very happy that you’ve found success and have managed to reduce your medications. I find you to be extremely bright and educated, kind and sweet in true Canadian fashion, and driven to live your best life. Kudos! 🎉

[@TheOzarkExplorer]

I came across some studies on the Keto diet and schizophrenia about a month ago and was truly stunned. I have a daughter who's dealing with schizophrenia for several years now. Her mother and great grandmother did as well, and maybe to a lessor degree so did her grandmother. The studies I've read so far basically say this diet changes your gut microbiome which is, somehow (they're not exactly sure yet) directly related to your brain function. This is actually a fairly recent discovery and a pretty astounding one. From what I have found so far everyone who's started and stuck with the keto diet has fully recovered and there are several I've read about that quit taking the prescribed meds (mainly haloperidol) after some time. From what I understand as of now the keto diet works relatively fast at changing your gut's microbiome and your brain gets back to normal with that. But I have very little info on that so far. One of the earliest patients that started on the keto diet that was followed up on quit taking her prescriptions after about 2 years. She was followed up on for 3 more years after that and hadn't had any issues at all. At that point she told her doctors she didn't need to check in any longer and moved on. What's also interesting is my daughter's doctor, as far as I know, has not prescribed the Keto diet for her yet, but I suspect that's because she's not aware of it as a treatment for schizophrenia. It's fair to assume I probably know more about it than most "General Practitioners". So I've subscribed to your channel so I can follow your insight on how this is working for you, and I'll encourage my daughter to do the same. From what I read on it, and I've read a lot, it works, and that is truly a huge breakthrough. So you go girl! You got this and I want to be here with you so I can keep learning with and from you!!!

[@wendydavidson1589]

Every form of treatment has its associated costs and side effects, and each person is going to have to decide for themselves what works best for them. I'm so glad the keto diet is helping you. And if the placebo effect is positively contributing to your reduction in symptoms, then that's great, too! The placebo effect is real!

[@lizpeterson6719]

Good for you girl. Do what's right for you. The naysayers don't live your life and you don't live theirs. You look bloody healthy to me and since you're a mother of three, you look and obviously feel great. The project seems to be working for you and I'll bet the quiet people out there that really need your words of encouragement are thankful. Keep up the good work.

[@Kinsey45]

You are very careful and responsible towards your viewers. You are great❤