Fuels for the brain: not only glucose

Question
OK...  I am a long time, on again off again ketogenic dieter who so far has been unable to control my weight.  I'm 52 now.

I've read where some "experts" will say that if you are on a very low carbohydrate diet (<25 grams) that your brain will not be able to function very well because the brain needs a steady stream of glucose.  Supposedly, you'll have to deal with a myriad of issues on a low-carb diet including memory lapses, "foggy" feelings etc...

Others have noted that yes, your brain does indeed need glucose, however your body certainly has the ability to convert proteins and fats into glucose as needed by the body and brain.

From a physiological standpoint, which is it?  Can the body make the necessary fuels needed for good brain function on a LC diet or do you need the glucose to come from carbohydrates?

I myself...  feel much better while on a low-carb diet or even fasting for a day or two than I do while piling in all sorts of sugars from junk foods on a normal carbo loaded diet.  My brain function is just as good and In feel fine.  I've even fasted up to 5 days (water and vitamins) and generally feel fine.

Thanks in advance

DAVID

Answer
Dear David,

The "others" you've mentioned are less incorrect than the "experts" you've also mentioned. It's a very well researched area of neuro-nutrition yet you indeed find these opinions all the time, even from dietitians. I am trying to put together facts that are really, strictly scientific and make this information available to people. Of course I cannot post here several articles so please find them following these links:

ow the exceptional energy demands of the brain are met
http://brainfuels.com/2010/02/exceptional-energy-demands-of-the-brain-and-energy...

Two energy sources: carbohydrates vs fatty acids
http://brainfuels.com/2010/03/two-energy-sources-carbohydrates-vs-fatty-acids/

Major sources of energy for the brain depend on species, age, and physiological conditions
http://brainfuels.com/2010/02/major-sources-of-energy-for-the-brain/

Not only ketone bodies: on neuroprotective effects of energy substrates
http://brainfuels.com/2010/03/not-only-ketone-bodies-on-neuroprotective-effects-...

Physiological effects of ketone bodies
http://brainfuels.com/2010/02/physiological-effects-of-ketone-bodies/

Hope it helps,

Tanya Zilberter

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