Andrew Huberman on Ketone Esters
5 episodes · 6 references · 2021–2023
- Huberman uses liquid ketone esters for focus, energy, and sleep benefits, even without following a ketogenic diet - He cites research supporting ketones as brain fuel and athletic performance aid alongside carbohydrates - He experienced psoriasis from ketone esters combined with keto diet, resolved by stopping; no specific dosing guidance discussed
Consumption
- Takes liquid ketone esters, started within the last year or so before reporting - Uses them sometimes mixed into drinks, not as part of a ketogenic diet - Reports subjective improvements in energy, mental focus, and sleep quality
Benefits
- Ketones serve as brain fuel even for people not following a ketogenic diet, supported by research - Elite athletes use exogenous ketones during races and long efforts as a quick energy source - Ketones can be combined with carbohydrates — no need to choose one or the other
Cautions
- Huberman developed scalp psoriasis while combining ketone esters with a ketogenic diet - Symptoms resolved within one week after stopping ketone esters and reintroducing carbohydrates - Suggests the combination of keto diet plus exogenous ketones may trigger inflammatory skin reactions
“In the last year or so I've started using liquid Ketone Esters. Those liquid Ketone Esters for me at least subjectively I feel like greatly increase my energy levels and my ability to focus mentally and improve my sleep.”
Diet & Nutrition for Mental Health | Dr. Chris Palmer
“Nowadays I sometimes will throw some ketones in there, not because I'm on a ketogenic diet but for I do feel like it makes my level of focus and cognition better.”
Control Stress for Healthy Eating, Metabolism & Aging | Dr. Elissa Epel
“There are good data showing that we can all utilize ketones as a brain fuel even if we're not on a ketogenic diet.”
Control Stress for Healthy Eating, Metabolism & Aging | Dr. Elissa Epel
“I've heard that ketones after head injury can provide a buffering component. It's not going to reverse brain damage, but it might be able to offset some of the micro-damage.”
How to Exercise for Strength Gains & Hormone Optimization | Dr. Duncan French
“They are also ingesting ketones during races, during long bouts of effort, because ketones can be a quick form of energy. There's no reason why you can't use ketones if they are taken exogenous ketones and carbohydrate.”
How to Build Endurance in Your Brain & Body
“I tried keto including taking liquid ketone esters and I got psoriasis on my scalp that was unbelievable. I stopped the ketone esters, put carbohydrates back in my diet, and it went away within a week.”
Andrew Huberman - TRT, PEDs, Maxing Out Natural T, Supplements, Diet, Sleep & Hormones Deep Dive
