Neha Bhasin reveals how Keto diet helped her battle depression: Experts weigh in on mental health benefits
Singer Neha Bhasin has opened up about her struggles with weight gain, depression, and hormonal health issues, sharing how the ketogenic (keto) diet played a transformative role in her recovery.
“Last year, I was not well. I had put on 10 kilos owing to medications. I was in proper clinical depression… Around Diwali, I even had a panic attack,” Bhasin said during a conversation with comedian Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa on their YouTube podcast.
The 42-year-old revealed that her psychiatrist recommended the keto diet as part of her treatment. “My life has changed because of keto. My inflammation is gone. Depression has gone. Mood swings are still there, but bearable. Bloating has reduced. You feel something is changing in your body,” she said, adding that her doctors told her she was “carb-resistant” due to conditions like PCOD and PMDD.
While Bhasin admitted the transition was difficult — “I struggled a lot in the first month with keto flu, diarrhoea, and IBS” — she said the benefits became clearer after a few months.
What experts say
Health specialists caution that while Bhasin’s case highlights keto’s potential benefits for mental health, it should not replace conventional treatment.
“The ketogenic diet is being explored for its impact on mental health, with some evidence suggesting improvements in depression and anxiety. But research is still in its early stages,” said Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietitian and diabetes educator. “Without supervision, keto can lead to nutritional deficiencies or worsen existing conditions.”
Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist and founder of Gateway of Healing, added: “Neha’s experience reflects how dietary interventions can complement mental health care. But keto should be personalised, monitored, and never seen as a substitute for professional treatment.”
According to Dr Tugnait, ketones — produced in ketosis — may provide the brain with a steadier energy source, potentially stabilising mood and improving cognitive clarity. Some individuals also report reduced anxiety and stress on the diet.
The takeaway
Experts agree that while keto shows promise in supporting mental health, more large-scale clinical trials are needed. For now, specialists recommend that anyone considering it should do so under the guidance of both a nutritionist and a mental health professional.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.