What is the ketogenic diet?
The ketogenic diet (KD) is a diet low in carbohydrates (rice, pasta, bread, vegetables, fruits and legumes), high in fat (cream, butter, milk, oil, etc.) and variable in protein depending on the size of the patient.
Are there different types of ketogenic diet?
There are two types of ketogenic diet, which put the caloric focus on different macronutrients:
– CD for epileptic children: fats are the main caloric intake.
– DC for weight loss: the main energy source is protein.
In this article we will focus on the first subtype, as it is the less known of the two.
Who is this diet for?
The ketogenic diet is a treatment used in children with epilepsy whose seizures have not been controlled by drugs. Therefore, in no case will this pathology be treated with a CD from the beginning. The neurologist will be, together with the parents, in charge of deciding whether to start this diet.
Finally, although the ketogenic diet is not exclusively for children, it has been shown to be more effective in children than in adults.
How does this diet affect the brain?
Although there are several theories on this subject, the majority belief is that through the CD glucose decreases in the blood, so that the brain no longer uses it as an engine, but is replaced by fats stored in the body through this diet.
Is it possible to eradicate crises?
First of all, we must bear in mind that the aim is not to eliminate the seizures only. The most important thing is really to reduce the pharmacological treatment, as well as to make the child more integrated in the environment and to contribute to his learning.
On the other hand, the ketogenic diet manages to eliminate epilepsy completely by 10-15% and to reduce the seizures suffered by children by 50%. Therefore, although it is not completely effective, it has a high degree of effectiveness.
Who should design the diet?
The CD, like any diet, should be designed by a specialized nutritionist, working together with a professional from the Epilepsy Unit.
Firstly, calorie intake will be variable for each child according to weight and age. Secondly, the protein calculation will depend solely on weight.
Finally, based on these two indicators, fat and carbohydrate intake will be calculated.
Is it necessary to give any nutritional supplement?
Yes, since the reduction of vegetables and fruit in the diet of children creates a lack of vitamins and minerals that must be supplemented for the child’s well-being.
Are there any side effects?
Although it is not frequent if the advice of medical specialists is followed, in some cases it can lead to high cholesterol, weight gain, kidney stones, growth retardation or constipation. If you suffer any of these alterations, you should see a nutritionist to review your diet and make sure it is being followed correctly.