What is the history of ketone research?
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The history of ketone research is extensive and multifaceted, spanning over a century. Key moments and discoveries include:
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19th Century: Ketones were first identified in the late 1800s in Germany. Initially, they were considered byproducts of starvation in humans and animals, as well as markers in type 1 diabetes, with limited interest due to their seemingly incidental nature 1.
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1930s: The ketogenic diet was coined at the Mayo Clinic when researchers discovered that children with severe seizure disorders experienced fewer seizures during periods of fasting. This discovery led to the formulation of a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, which produced ketones and effectively reduced seizures, marking a significant clinical use of ketones 1.
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1970s-1990s: Researchers like George Cahill and Richard Veech began exploring ketones beyond starvation and focused on their potential as alternative energy sources. Their experiments showed that ketones could sustain energy production and brain function during periods of low glucose availability, suggesting ketones could be essential for human survival during extended periods without food 2.
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Modern Era: More recent research, particularly from the 2000s onwards, has focused on the therapeutic potential of ketones. Investigations have covered various areas, including the impact on oxidative stress, neuroprotection, metabolic health, and chronic diseases such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's, and cancer. Researchers like have studied beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate for their anti-seizure and neuroprotective properties, highlighting ketones' broad therapeutic applications 3 4.
Overall, the evolving understanding of ketones has shifted from viewing them as mere starvation markers to recognizing their potential as powerful metabolic fuels and therapeutic agents.
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