Ketogenic Diet Therapy for Epilepsy

Course overview

Dealing with intractable epilepsy can be a parent's worst nightmare. Despite the use of multiple medications, implanted nerve stimulators, and even brain surgery, one-third of children experiencing seizures remain in the grip of this unpredictable and sometimes fatal condition. The question remains: Can epilepsy be helped by food? Concerns include possible acute adverse effects along with long-term worries of poor growth, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and kidney stones. Despite these issues, the neurology community has concluded that ketogenic diet therapy is a viable option not just for epilepsy, but possibly for other conditions as well. Healthcare providers working with individuals on this extremely low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet require a thorough understanding of ketogenic diet guidelines, necessary supplementation, and monitoring protocols to help clients succeed and minimize adverse effects throughout the use of this strict therapy.