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The Effects of Exogenous Ketones on Cognitive Function

Who can join

Ages 19 to 55 · All sexes · Healthy volunteers welcome

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 19-55 years
* BMI 30-40 (obese group) or 18-25 (lean and athlete groups)
* Sedentary status (\<2 hrs/week of structured physical activity) for obese and lean groups
* Active athlete status (≥5 days/week of structured activity) for athlete group

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosed neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, muscular dystrophy, stroke, cerebral palsy)
* History of seizures
* Use of medications for diabetes, mood disorders, or attention disorders
* Pregnant or breastfeeding
* Current or recent use (within 1 month) of exogenous ketone supplements or adherence to a ketogenic diet

About the study

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the acute effects of exogenous ketone monoester (KME) supplementation on cognitive function in three groups of adults aged 19-55 years: (1) obese, sedentary individuals; (2) lean, sedentary individuals; and (3) lean individuals who engage in regular physical activity (e.g., collegiate or amateur athletes). The main questions it aims to answer are to:

* Assess the effects of acute KME supplementation versus placebo on cognitive, sensorimotor, and functional outcomes within groups. * Compare cognitive performance across the three groups.

The primary outcome is cognitive performance assessed using the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery. Secondary Outcomes include sensorimotor performance, measured using the Senaptec Sensory System, and driving performance, assessed with a driving simulator.

What is being tested

• Ketone Monoester (KE) (dietary supplement)
• Placebo (dietary supplement)

Sponsor: University of Alabama at Birmingham · Participants: 45 · Started: Dec 1, 2025

Contact the study team

• Sarah K Sweatt, PhD · Phone: 205-975-5398

Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT07051655

Locations in the U.S.

From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.