Psychiatrist Says Kennedy Was ‘Not Accurate’ in Discussing His Keto Studies

A prominent psychiatrist has publicly challenged recent claims made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding his research into the ketogenic diet, saying Kennedy’s statements about the findings were “not accurate” and risk misleading the public about the science behind nutrition and mental health.
The dispute centers on Kennedy’s comments in a recent interview in which he cited his own studies to argue that the ketogenic diet could dramatically improve mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. While Kennedy described the results as groundbreaking, a psychiatrist involved in reviewing the research said his interpretation overstated the evidence and simplified complex findings.
Scientific Concerns Raised
Dr. Alan Mercer, a psychiatrist and clinical researcher who examined the data referenced by Kennedy, said the conclusions presented to the public did not fully reflect what the studies actually showed.
“The results were preliminary and limited,” Mercer said in a statement. “Mr. Kennedy portrayed them as definitive proof that keto diets can treat psychiatric disorders. That is simply not accurate.”
Mercer emphasized that the studies involved small sample sizes and short observation periods, making them insufficient to support broad claims about mental health treatment. He warned that presenting early-stage research as settled science could encourage vulnerable individuals to abandon established medical care.
What Kennedy Claimed
Kennedy, a long-time advocate of alternative health approaches, said in interviews and public appearances that ketogenic diets had produced “remarkable improvements” in mental well-being among participants in his studies. He suggested that shifting the brain’s energy source from glucose to ketones could stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of mental illness.
He also implied that pharmaceutical treatments for mental health were often unnecessary if patients adopted dietary changes. These remarks quickly drew criticism from medical professionals who argued that such claims require far stronger clinical evidence.
A spokesperson for Kennedy responded by saying that he never intended to replace professional medical advice and that his remarks were meant to highlight “promising avenues for further research.”
The Keto Diet and Mental Health
The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and extremely low in carbohydrates, has long been used to treat epilepsy in children and is increasingly popular for weight loss. In recent years, researchers have explored whether it might have benefits for certain neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Some small studies suggest potential improvements in mood and cognitive function, but experts stress that these findings remain experimental. Larger, controlled trials are still needed before keto can be recommended as a mental health therapy.
“Nutrition absolutely plays a role in brain health,” said Dr. Leila Harmon, a nutrition psychiatrist not involved in the dispute. “But claiming a single diet can replace therapy or medication is dangerous and misleading.”
Risk of Public Misinformation
Health experts worry that Kennedy’s statements could spread confusion at a time when misinformation about diet and medicine already circulates widely online. Social media platforms amplified his comments, with some users promoting keto as a cure-all for mental illness.
“This kind of messaging can be harmful,” Mercer said. “People struggling with depression or bipolar disorder might stop taking their medication because they believe diet alone will fix everything. That puts lives at risk.”
Mental health organizations echoed those concerns, urging the public to consult licensed professionals before making drastic changes to treatment plans.
Political and Cultural Context
Kennedy’s remarks also carry political weight, as he remains a controversial public figure whose statements often blur the line between science and advocacy. Critics argue that his influence gives his health claims greater reach than those of ordinary researchers.
“This is not just a scientific disagreement,” said one public health analyst. “It’s about responsibility when speaking to millions of people.”
Supporters, however, argue that Kennedy is encouraging innovation and questioning entrenched medical practices. They accuse mainstream psychiatry of being resistant to new ideas and overly dependent on pharmaceutical solutions.
Call for Clearer Communication
The psychiatrist who criticized Kennedy said the issue is not about silencing debate but about presenting research honestly.
“There’s nothing wrong with saying, ‘We’re exploring this and the results are interesting,’” Mercer explained. “The problem comes when those results are portrayed as proven therapies.”
Medical associations are now calling for clearer guidelines on how preliminary health research should be discussed in public forums. Some experts suggest that journalists and influencers should be more careful when translating complex scientific findings for mass audiences.
What Comes Next
Further studies on ketogenic diets and mental health are underway at several universities, but researchers say it will take years before firm conclusions can be drawn. Until then, doctors recommend that patients treat such claims cautiously.
For now, the controversy highlights a familiar tension between scientific rigor and popular health messaging. As diets and wellness trends gain attention, the line between hope and hype becomes increasingly thin.
“The science is evolving,” Mercer said. “But accuracy matters. People deserve facts, not exaggerated promises.”
As debate continues, one point remains clear: while nutrition may play a supportive role in mental health, experts agree it should complement — not replace — professional psychiatric care.