The Keto Diet: Can It Treat Mental Illness? This diet is based on consuming high amounts of fat, moderate amounts of protein, and low amounts of carbohydrates. The goal of this diet is to shift the body's primary energy source from carbohydrates to fat. This stimulates the liver to burn fat and convert it into ketones for energy production, leading to weight loss. This diet has been used since the early 20th century as an effective treatment for some severe cases of epilepsy. According to some studies, it has shown promising results in alleviating the symptoms of certain mental disorders such as bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia. Al-Mustaqbal University, the leading university in Iraq.