In this episode of The Lancet Pulse, Niall Boyce and Matt Gilbert speak with Professor Daniel Smith about the emerging connection between diet and mental health, with a focus on the ketogenic diet and bipolar disorder. Together, they explore what bipolar disorder is, why its depressive phases can be so difficult to treat, and why researchers are beginning to investigate whether changes in metabolism and brain energy use could play a role in improving symptoms.

The conversation also looks at the bigger picture: how much evidence is there so far, what makes this area of research so promising, and where caution is still needed. From early feasibility studies to questions about long-term safety, affordability, and dietitian support, this episode offers a thoughtful look at a fast-evolving field — and asks whether nutritional approaches could become a meaningful add-on to mental health care in the future.

The Lancet Pulse is part of the Lancet Group podcast offering. 

Editorial team: Chloe Wilson, Ben Abbott, Matthew Gilbert, and Jonathan Pimm

Podcast editing and production: Matteo Simonetti

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