Still Giving Thanks
Metabolic psychiatry is building strong momentum thanks to the clinicians, patients, researchers, and philanthropists who continue to show what’s possible when treatment targets root causes rather than symptoms.
I’m deeply thankful for this progress, knowing it means the end of suffering for so many. And I’m thankful for your interest. In last month’s survey, many of you said that sharing information with friends and family is the action that moves you.
With that in mind, here are three examples of that strong momentum. Please share them widely. Your voice truly matters.
Healing Depression Project
For those who have tried everything and still live with depression, this immersive program offers new hope and measurable change.
This unique program integrates metabolic psychiatry, therapeutic ketogenic nutrition, functional medicine, trauma-healing therapy, structured lifestyle interventions, and mindfulness practices in a serene retreat-style setting.
During 30 days at a lakefront ranch near Austin, followed by 15 days of guided at-home integration, participants work with a team of renowned doctors and a nutritionist dedicated to empowering them to reclaim their lives.
This method works. In the last program, every participant experienced measurable improvement in how they felt and functioned by day 30.
• Everyone reported better mood and more energy
• Most described feeling hopeful and optimistic for the first time in years
• Most noticed clearer thinking, more stable emotions, and improved day-to-day functioning
• The gains have been long-lasting for those who continued the ketogenic diet and lifestyle habits after going home
Symptoms dropped ~70% across four validated clinical scales, and 80% reached remission or mild symptom levels according to the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D17).
The next program begins March 1, 2026, and scholarships covering up to 70% of the cost are available. The application deadline is December.
If you have been struggling for a long time, this program may be the turning point you’ve been looking for.
A Bridge to the Future of Medicine
In conversation with Dr. Mark Hyman, leading mitochondria researcher Martin Picard, PhD shares a transformational insight: energy is the foundation of human health. And mitochondria are the foundation of energy in the body.
But mitochondria do far more than make ATP. They respond to a wide range of inputs: what we eat, how we sleep, how we move, the stress we carry, our social connections, and more. They receive and interpret these signals, and then orchestrate processes including inflammation, mood, cognition - even gene expression - shaping how we experience life. Given that we can control these inputs, this expanded understanding of mitochondria provides a clear path to achieving and maintaining vibrant health.
Dr. Picard’s insight is consistent with Dr. Chris Palmer’s Brain Energy theory which describes the importance of mitochondrial function to mental health. And as you know, staying in ketosis can be a very strong lever.
Please watch and share this exciting conversation. Especially listen for these topics: the Energy Resistance Principle (ERP), the pan-disease biomarker GDF 15, and using "Mitoception" to manage your energy drains and gains.
"Because you have the right to know all of the ways that you can feel better" ~ Nicole Laurent, LMHC
If you’re not yet familiar with metabolic health dynamo Nicole Laurent, prepare to be inspired. Nicole is a licensed mental health counselor in Washington State whose mantra is: ‘Because you have the right to know all of the ways that you can feel better’. She helps individuals and families integrate behavior change with metabolic approaches that support cognition and mood.
Nicole’s many initiatives include:
An online keto-for-mental health group program
Continuing education courses in metabolic psychiatry for non-prescribers
Research on ketogenic diets and mental illness recovery
A free Brain Nutrition Guide
The Brain Fog Recovery Source, a non-profit serving individuals who have mental illness and limited income
The Happy Brain Metabolic Recovery Series of coloring books, sales of which support the non-profit
A seriously informative blog on her website: Keto for Mental Health. The most recent entry is: ‘Do Not Fear for Your Thyroid on a Ketogenic Diet: Support the Signals that Matter’
Thank you for being a part of the growing movement to make metabolic psychiatry a first line treatment!
