•     About Epilepsy
•     Newly Diagnosed
•     Diagnosis
•     Treatment
  •         Medication
  •         Ketogenic Diet
  •         Surgery
  •         Complementary Treatments
  •         Prognosis
•     Syndromes
•     Seizures and Autism
•     Informational Videos
•     Tools You Can Use

Treatment: Ketogenic Diet

The Classic Ketogenic Diet that was developed at Johns Hopkins Hospital is a labor-intensive metabolic therapy with rigidly calculated meal plans.

Meals are high in fat, low in carbohydrates and protein to produce a high blood concentration of incompletely burned fat molecules called ketone bodies. Slight fluid restriction increases concentration of the ketone bodies and is useful for optimum effect. The state of ketosis is monitored in the urine while moderate to heavy ketosis is attempted.

The exact mechanism by which the diet obtains seizure control is unknown. Ketosis, dehydration, and acidosis each appear to play a role. The hypothesis, which arrived out of the epilepsy and Brain Mapping’s recent research, suggests that there is an alteration in the (1) acid-base balance; (2) water and electrolyte distribution; (3) lipid concentration (4) brain energy reserve or (5) a central action of ketones on the brain.

It wasn’t until 1993, when film producer, Jim Abrahams discovered the diet for his son, Charlie that resurgence began within the medical community. From Jim and his wife Nancy’s experience, they developed The Charlie Foundation to inform people about the diet. The Ketogenic Diet has been refined as a rigid metabolic therapy for epilepsy patients.

The usual candidate for the diet is a patient with medically intractable generalized seizures that are not amenable to medications or surgery. The results have shown promise in controlling seizures in young children and some adults.

The results of the diet have different outcomes for many patients. Some cannot tolerate the diet while others are more accepting to commit to the strict guidelines due to the success they have found. Supporters of the diet often suggest when several drugs are taken and failed, the diet should not be considered as a last resort but an option early on in treatment. Because of the intense protocol of the diet, doctors are often reluctant.  But, do your research and if you believe the diet may work in your favor then know there are medical professionals that are willing to help.  The diet is very closely monitored by a licensed dietician and should never be administered on your own.

KETO STARTER KITS

Starting the diet can be stressful so we at the American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation wish to help put your mind at ease.  Therefore we have Keto Starter Kits for families that will be starting the diet.  The kit includes a digital scale, a binder with protective sleeves to keep your menus clean, a few free samples of foods that are approved for the diet, and other misc. items and information. (Please discuss with your dietician/doctor before giving any food samples) For more information on how to obtain your kit please conact us at info@epilepsyoutreach.org . A donation is asked but is not required. 

Related Links:

« back

Dr. Roy Sucholeiki, MD