In addition to the essential nutrients, other substances are important on a keto diet. Prebiotics and probiotics support a healthy gut microbiota and improve digestion. Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Regular consumption of an adequate amount of water is crucial for maintaining hydration and eliminating toxins, especially with increased intake of fats and proteins.
Other substances
Alpha GPC (alpha-GPC, L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine). A concentrated choline form commonly used to support memory, focus, neuromuscular signaling, and nootropic or sports-oriented protocols.
Alpha-lipoic acid (thioctic acid, ALA). A mitochondrial enzyme cofactor and antioxidant-related molecule is studied in diabetic neuropathy and glucose metabolism, but alpha-lipoic acid supplements require attention to medications, dose, and tolerance.
Antioxidants. They reduce inflammation and slow down the aging process. A deficiency increases the risk of chronic diseases (cancer, heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders).
Berberine. Berberine is a plant alkaloid most often discussed in relation to glucose metabolism, lipid markers, and metabolic health.
Betaine. Betaine is involved in methylation, homocysteine metabolism, and support of liver-related metabolic pathways.
Caffeine. Stimulates the CNS, increases alertness, concentration, and endurance. When lacking in the diet - fatigue (in those accustomed). Used to boost energy, sports goals, and eliminate drowsiness.
Calcium D-Glucarate. Calcium D-glucarate is usually discussed as a supplement that supports glucuronidation and the clearance of some estrogen-related metabolites. It is most often linked with hormone-balance support and gentle detoxification pathways.
Coenzyme Q10. Antioxidant, involved in energy production in the mitochondria. Deficiency - fatigue, muscle weakness, heart problems. Used in cardiovascular diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, and aging.
Collagen. Collagen is a structural connective-tissue protein important for skin, joints, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessel walls.
Curcumin. Curcumin is a turmeric polyphenol studied for effects on inflammatory signaling and antioxidant defense. Its bioavailability is low, so form, dose, gut tolerance and medication interactions matter.
GABA. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter linked with relaxation, sleep and the balance of nervous-system excitation. GABA supplements have variable effects; anxiety and insomnia also require attention to sleep, stress, caffeine, magnesium and medical context.
Glutathione. Glutathione is a major intracellular antioxidant involved in detoxification, redox balance and liver function. Practical support depends not only on supplements, but also protein, cysteine, selenium, B vitamins and metabolic health.
L-carnitine. Transports fatty acids into the mitochondria, increases energy production. In case of deficiency - fatigue, obesity, muscle weakness. Prescribed for obesity, physical exertion, cardiac problems.
Lactoferrin (Lactotransferrin). An iron-binding milk and mucosal protein most often discussed for immune support, mucosal defense, gut-barrier support, and modulation of inflammatory response.
Lectins. Plant protein agglutinins. They can irritate the intestines and exacerbate inflammation; they have no therapeutic use.
Lutein. Eye health, retina protection, prevention of age-related vision disorders. Insufficient care leads to vision impairment, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts.
Melatonin. Sleep hormone, regulates biorhythms, restores immunity. Deficiency - insomnia, fatigue, disruption of circadian rhythms. Used for sleep disorders, shifting time zones, immune system disorders.
Monacolin K. Monacolin K is the main lipid-lowering compound of red yeast rice and is chemically very close to lovastatin, so it should be treated as a genuinely active substance rather than a harmless “rice pigment.”
Phosphatidylcholine (PC). A major membrane phospholipid and an important dietary choline carrier. Most often discussed for liver support, bile flow, membrane repair, and broader structural support.
Prebiotics. Health of the digestive system. Insufficient health can lead to digestive issues, decreased immunity, and an increased risk of inflammatory diseases.
Probiotics. Healthy gut microflora, improved digestion, immunity. Lack of it leads to dysbiosis, digestive issues, weakened immunity, and increased risk of infections.
Resveratrol. Antioxidant, slows down cell aging. In case of deficiency (in diet) — increased oxidative stress. Prescribed for inflammations, cardiovascular diseases, to protect blood vessels and promote longevity.
Transfer factor
Water. Supports thermoregulation, metabolism, and detoxification. Insufficient amounts can lead to headaches, fatigue, organ dysfunction, and decreased cognitive functions.