Researchers are studying whether different diets, including a ketogenic diet and a diet based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, can affect brain energy metabolism and psychiatric symptoms. The findings may help improve future treatment approaches for individuals with bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18-45
• Had your first episode of psychosis within the past 7 years
• Not taking stimulant medications (e.g., Adderall, Concerta, etc.)
• Not taking a diabetes or weight loss medication other than metformin (e.g., no Zepbound, Wegovy, etc.)
• No diabetes
• No current substance use disorder
• Able to undergo an MRI (no non-removable metal on/in your body or severe claustrophobia)

If you qualify and choose to participate, you will:

1. Complete a phone screening interview with the study team.
2. Be assigned to follow one of two study diets.
3. Meet virtually once per week with a registered dietitian for nutrition counseling, education, and meal-planning support.
4. Monitor your blood glucose and ketone levels daily using a finger-stick device.
5. Attend in-person visits at McLean Hospital approximately every three weeks.
6. Complete study assessments, which may include MRI scans, cognitive testing, blood draws, interviews, and questionnaires.
7. Continue participating throughout the 12-week study period, with the option to join an additional open-label phase if eligible.
8.  

Participants may receive up to $1,720 for completing the main study and up to $2,570 total if they choose to participate in the optional open-label phase.

Additional study benefits include:

• Free meals for three months
• Free meals during in-person study visits
• Free nutrition counseling for 12 weeks
• Blood work with results provided
• A complimentary anatomical MRI review by a radiologist

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.