Improving Adherence to a Mediterranean Ketogenic Nutrition Program for High-Risk Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Nutrition Science
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Mediterranean ketogenic nutrition (MKN) may impact neurobiological mechanisms linked to dementia risk.
• Adherence to MKN can be challenging for older adults with memory concerns.
• The NIH ORBIT model was used to develop a program to support MKN use in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot a Mediterranean ketogenic nutrition adherence (MKNA) program for older adults with memory concerns.
• To compare the MKNA program with an MKN education (MKNE) program using a randomized design.
• To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, adherence, and clinical outcomes of the MKNA program.

Main Methods:

• A two-arm randomized trial with 58 participants experiencing memory concerns.
• The MKNA arm incorporated motivational interviewing (MI) and behavior change techniques (BCT).
• Primary outcomes included feasibility, acceptability, adherence, and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

• High program completion (79%) and retention (82% in MKNA vs. 72% in MKNE) were observed.
• The MKNA arm showed higher adherence to MKN and better session attendance (91% vs. 77%).
• Participants reported high satisfaction; some clinical benefits were noted, correlating with adherence.

Conclusions:

• The MKN program integrating MI and BCT strategies may enhance participant engagement and retention.
• Both MKNA and MKNE programs were feasible and acceptable to older adults with memory concerns.
• Further research is warranted to explore the long-term clinical benefits of MKN adherence.