Diets for Treating Epilepsy

^{Reviewed by: My Child Without Limits Advisory Committee September 2009}

Studies have shown that, in some cases, children may experience fewer seizures if they stay on a strict diet rich in fats and low in carbohydrates. This unusual diet, called the ketogenic diet, causes the body to break down fats instead of carbohydrates to survive. This creates a condition called ketosis.

One study of 150 children whose seizures were poorly controlled by medication found that about one-fourth of these children had a 90 percent or better decrease in seizures when they followed the ketogenic diet. Another half of the group had a 50 percent or better decrease in their seizures. It was also discovered that some children could discontinue the ketogenic diet after several years and remain seizure-free.

The ketogenic diet is not easy to maintain, as it requires following a diet with an unusual and limited range of foods. Possible side effects include retarded growth due to nutritional deficiency and a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to kidney stones. People who try the ketogenic diet should consult a dietician to ensure that it does not lead to serious nutritional deficiency.

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Alternative Treatments for Epilepsy

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