Ketogenic Diet for Epilepsy

Epilepsy refers to recurrent seizures triggered by abnormal electrical impulses in the brain. Some seizures are so mild and fleeting that they are barely noticeable; others last for several minutes, during which the person falls down and is seized by convulsive movements. The frequency of seizures also varies from person to person.

Neurologists generally discount any link between diet and epilepsy, but there are exceptions. Those with epilepsy who have migraine headaches that are triggered by certain foods often cease to have seizures when those foods are eliminated. Some diabetics suffer seizures when their blood sugar levels drop suddenly. Large amounts of alcohol consumed in a short time can cause seizures. There have been rare reports of aspartame triggering seizures in people with epilepsy.

Another exception: The ketogenic diet has helped halt seizures in the 20% of children whose attacks cannot be controlled by drugs.

Nutrition Connection
There is no one set diet for those with epilepsy, but some of these nutritional approaches may be helpful in controlling the disease:
-Consider the ketogenic diet for children. Neurologists at Johns Hopkins Hospital have refined a dietary treatment for severe epilepsy. The ketogenic diet causes the body to break down fats instead of carbohydrates for energy. For children, the diet begins with 2 to 3 days of fasting in a hospital, and then the foods are introduced gradually. It provides about 75% of the calories generally recommended for healthy children, most of them from fats. A small amount of protein is added to allow for at least some growth, but carbohydrates are kept to a minimum. Fluid intake is restricted. The diet must be carefully tailored and then followed exactly, as even small changes can cause seizures. Although difficult, there’s a payoff: Most can resume a normal diet and still be seizure-free after 2 to 3 years.
-Make diet changes. Adults can also try the ketogenic diet if they don’t respond to drugs. But this diet isn’t recommended for adults because of its very restrictive nature. Johns Hopkins researchers have also developed a modified Atkins diet, which is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. Studies have shown that the diet lowers seizure rates in nearly half of adults who try it. Speak to your doctor before changing your diet.

Beyond the Diet
People with epilepsy can lead a fulfilling life. Keep the seizures under control by following these guidelines: -Stay on top of your medications. Although dealing with side effects can be difficult, it is imperative to take the right doses as frequently as directed by your doctor. If the side effects bother you, speak to your doctor. -Get good sleep. Not getting enough rest can trigger a seizure. Aim for 7 to 8 hours a night.
-Wear a medical alert bracelet. This can alert medical personnel effectively and save your life.
-Inquire about other therapies. Depending on your situation, surgery or other therapies may be advisable. Speak to your doctor about your options.
-22% of stroke patients may develop epilepsy.