The Impact of Ketone Salt Supplementation on Blood Pressure and Health Parameters in Adults Diagnosed with PTSD – A Pilot Stud

Abstract

"Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition associated with high levels of stress often linked to elevated resting blood pressure (BP). Beta-hydroxybutyrate, a fuel source and signaling molecule, has been shown to improve metabolic and neurological conditions, as well as decrease systolic BP in healthy populations. The purpose of this study was to determine if longterm beta-hydroxybutyrate administration via ketone salt (KS) supplementation alters BP, complete blood count (CBC), or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) results in adults diagnosed with PTSD. Sixteen adults (ages 21-65; 12 women/4 men) with PTSD completed this randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled study by taking KS or a placebo supplement for 6 weeks. Blood was collected (for CMP and CBC assessment) and BP measurements were taken before and after the intervention period. None of the variables changed significantly based on the condition (p > .05 for all interaction effects). The reduction in BP measures following the KS supplementation, though non-significant, may be clinically meaningful in PTSD populations and others subject to increased cardiovascular mortality risk. Chronic KS supplementation did not negatively impact BP, CBC, or CMP measures in adults with PTSD. Further investigation of KS as a hypertension treatment approach is warranted in this population."