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Low carb diet to prevent seizures?

Thu, 03/01/2007 - 16:05
I've read that a diet similar to the Atkins diet (Ketogenic?) can help to control seizures. I'm on AED for epilepsy as I would imagine most people with epilepsy are. But I'm curious if this practice is still used?

Comments

Re: Low carb diet to prevent seizures?

Submitted by kedrep on Thu, 2007-03-01 - 18:16
Kedrep, Yes the diet is called The Ketogenic Diet. The diet came into play around 1930's ish. The diet kinda got swept under the table for years due to the promotion of other seizure meds (valium, phenobarbitol). I do know the diet is available to adults now, but do not know of a trial with adults. It has had varied results for children. I put my son on the diet twice and had different results each time. The one overall result was his reduction in seizures (over 100 a day, down to 20 a day, that I see). I would suggest contacting Johns Hopkins University, Dr. John Freeman and his nurse, Millicent have done massive research on this diet. Dr. Freeman has been using the diet on children since the 1970's. The diet is extremely stringent, but totally feasible. Dr. Freeman has written a few good books on the subject, all a laymen friendly. Good Luck!! Kedrep

Re: Low carb diet to prevent seizures?

Submitted by lisaltstheresa on Thu, 2007-03-01 - 18:44
Yes they still use the Ketogenic diet and many are using Atkins diet too. Because the adults brain is fully grown, it can be harder for an adult to get under control. But it can still be helpful for an adult too and get some seizures decreased. They use both the diet and meds in some cases. Atkins Diet http://atkinsforseizures.com/ Ketogenic Diet http://www.charliefoundation.org/ Lisa http://www.sleep-safe.co.uk/id90.htm http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/epilepsyapproach1/

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