Can Coconut Oil Help Brain Function in Dementia?

Can Coconut Oil Help Brain Function in Dementia?

From Metabolic Mind by Bret Scher

April 29, 2026 · 6 min

About this episode

Dr. Bret Scher explores the potential of coconut oil and ketones in supporting brain function in dementia.

Can something as simple as coconut oil support brain health in dementia? In this video, Dr. Bret Scher explores an emerging area of research focused on brain energy metabolism and how ketones may play a role in supporting cognitive function in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment. As the brain’s ability to use glucose declines in Alzheimer’s, researchers have begun investigating whether ketones can help fill that energy gap. In this video, you’ll learn: Why the brain may experience an energy deficit in Alzheimer’s disease How ketones provide an “alternative” fuel for the brain The role of coconut oil and MCTs in raising ketone levels Insights from Dr. Mary Newport’s early observations and case reports Research from Dr. Stephen Cunnane on brain energy metabolism What current studies suggest about ketogenic therapies and cognitive function Common concerns about saturated fat and coconut oil Dr. Scher also discusses the limitations of the current evidence. While early findings are promising, much of the research is still in its early stages, and more rigorous clinical trials are needed. At the same time, for individuals and families facing cognitive…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Bret Scher

Topics covered

  • coconut oil
  • brain health
  • dementia
  • ketones
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • cognitive function
  • ketogenic therapies

Keywords

  • coconut oil
  • brain energy metabolism
  • ketones
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • mild cognitive impairment
  • saturated fat
  • ketogenic strategies

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: metabolicmind.org

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