Beta-hydroxybutyrate has shown promise in ameliorating symptoms of ARDS

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung condition that can lead to severe breathing difficulties and is a significant complication in COVID-19 patients. Managing ARDS often requires intensive care, including mechanical ventilation. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of ARDS has increased, necessitating the exploration of new treatments to improve patient outcomes. A recently published study by Shahtaghi, et al. has highlighted the potential of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), a ketone body, as a potential therapeutic approach for COVID-19-induced ARDS. Read the study here. 

Understanding ARDS in COVID-19

ARDS can be triggered by various factors, including infections like SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. The virus can directly infect lung cells or provoke an exaggerated immune response, releasing inflammatory molecules that damage lung tissues and other organs. ARDS in COVID-19 patients is associated with a high mortality rate, and current treatments primarily focus on supportive care and preventing secondary infections.

Beta-Hydroxybutyrate: A Potential Intervention?

BHB, a ketone body produced in the liver from fatty acids during fasting or ketogenic diets, has been recognized for its role in modulating metabolism and inflammation. It serves as an alternative energy source and a cellular signaling mediator, influencing immune responses and potentially reducing the severity of pulmonary infections.

The Study: Evaluating BHB in ARDS Patients

A recent randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial (Shahtaghi, et al. 2024) explored the effects of oral BHB on COVID-19-related ARDS (Click here to read the study). The study involved 75 patients with mild ARDS symptoms, divided into two groups: one received oral BHB twice daily, and the other received a placebo, for five days. The primary outcome measured changes in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, while secondary outcomes included changes in BHB levels, hospitalization days, and adverse events.

Key Findings

• Reduction in Inflammatory Markers: Patients treated with BHB showed a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α) and an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, suggesting a reduction in inflammation.
• Increased BHB Levels: BHB supplementation significantly raised plasma BHB levels, indicating successful metabolic modulation.
• Improved Clinical Outcomes: The BHB group experienced shorter hospital stays and less muscle fatigue, with no reported serious adverse events.

Implications and Future Directions

Beta-hydroxybutyrate has shown promise in ameliorating symptoms of ARDS in COVID-19 patients, offering a potential new avenue for treatment. By reducing inflammation and improving metabolic function, BHB could enhance recovery and reduce the severity of illness in affected patients. Further research is warranted to fully understand its therapeutic potential and integrate it into clinical practice.

Santa Barbara Nutrients is currently supporting a clinical study to test the potential benefit of using its medical food KetoCitra, which contains BHB, in long-COVID. This study is conducted at the University of Southern California by an expert investigative team led by Dr. Nuria Pastor-Soler. Subjects with long-COVID are given KetoCitra in conjunction with low-carbohydrate dietary changes and potential beneficial effects on the recovery from long-COVID will be assessed.

Long-COVID affects about 10-30% of COVID-19 survivors, causing prolonged symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, brain fog, chest pain, and joint pain. These symptoms can last for weeks or months, impacting daily life and quality of life. Ongoing research, aims to understand and manage long-COVID more effectively.

For more information on the clinical study supported by SBN, refer to: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05836402

For more information about KetoCitra, visit:
https://santabarbaranutrients.com/pages/ketocitra/

For more information about Santa Barbara Nutrients, visit: https://santabarbaranutrients.com/pages/about-us