نظام الكيتو الغذائي: ما هو وما مدى فاعليته لانقاص الوزن؟ - منصة شفاء
نظام الكيتو دايت أو حمية الكيتو أو النظام الغذائي الكيتون (The Ketogenic Diet) هو نظام غذائي منخفض الكربوهيدرات مقابل مستوى أعلى من الدهون. يدفع ...
Dec 21, 2022
التقليل من التعرض للنوبات
يغير النظام الغذائي أو الكيتو دايت من عملية التمثيل الغذائي وكيفية استخدام الجسم للطاقة من الأطعمة والأشربة، وتساعد المرحلة الكيتونية التي يصل إليها الجسم في <anchor>التقليل من التعرض للنوبات</anchor> التي يعاني منها مرضى الصرع وأعراضها التي يصعب السيطرة عليها بالأدوية.
Ketogenic Diet for Seizures | Epilepsy Foundation
Ketogenic Diet for Seizures \| Epilepsy Foundation[Skip to main content](#main-content)

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- [Understanding Epilepsy](/)Main Menu


- [What Is Epilepsy?](/what-is-epilepsy)


- [Understanding Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/understanding-seizures)


- [Who Can Get Epilepsy?](/what-is-epilepsy/understanding-seizures/who-gets-epilepsy)

- [What Happens During a Seizure?](/what-is-epilepsy/understanding-seizures/what-happens-during-seizure)

- [How Serious Are Seizures?](/what-is-epilepsy/understanding-seizures/how-serious-are-seizures)

- [What Are the Risk Factors of Seizures?](/what-is-epilepsy/understanding-seizures/risk-factors)

- [Will You Always Have Seizures?](/what-is-epilepsy/understanding-seizures/will-you-always-have-seizures)


- [Seizure Triggers](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers)


- [Alcohol as a Seizure Trigger](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/alcohol)

- [Drug Abuse as a Seizure Trigger](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/drug-abuse)

- [Lack of Sleep and Epilepsy](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/sleep)

- [Menstruation as a Seizure Trigger](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/menstruation)

- [Missed Medicines as a Seizure Trigger](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/missed-medicines)

- [Nutritional Deficiencies as a Seizure Trigger](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/nutritional-deficiencies)

- [Other Illnesses as a Seizure Trigger](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/other-illnesses)

- [Over Counter Medications and Epilepsy](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/over-counter-medications)

- [Photosensitivity and Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/photosensitivity)

- [Stress and Epilepsy](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-triggers/stress)


- [Types of Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types)


- [Absence Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/absence-seizures)

- [Atonic Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/atonic-seizures)

- [Atypical Absence Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/atypical-absence-seizures)

- [Clonic Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/clonic-seizures)

- [Epileptic or Infantile Spasms](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/epileptic-or-infantile-spasms)

- [Febrile Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/febrile-seizures)

- [Focal Bilateral Tonic Clonic Seizures (Secondarily Generalized Seizures)](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/focal-bilateral-tonic-clonic-seizures)

- [Focal Aware Seizures (Simple Partial Seizures)](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/focal-onset-aware-seizures)

- [Focal Impaired Awareness Seizures (Complex Partial Seizures)](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/focal-onset-impaired-awareness-seizures)

- [Gelastic and Dacrystic Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/gelastic-and-dacrystic-seizures)

- [Myoclonic Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/myoclonic-seizures)

- [Drug-Resistant Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/drug-resistant-seizures)

- [Tonic-Clonic Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/tonic-clonic-seizures)

- [Tonic Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/tonic-seizures)


- [Epilepsy Syndromes](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes)


- [Early Infantile Developmental & Epileptic Encephalopathy](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/early-infantile-developmental-epileptic-encephalopathy)

- [Familial Focal Epilepsy with Variable Foci (FFEVF)](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/ffevf)

- [Photosensitive Occipital Lobe Epilepsy (POLE)](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/pole)

- [Childhood Absence Epilepsy](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/childhood-absence-epilepsy)

- [Childhood Epilepsy Centrotemporal Spikes (Benign Rolandic Epilepsy)](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/childhood-epilepsy-centrotemporal-spikes)

- [Dravet Syndrome](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/dravet-syndrome)

- [Epilepsy Eyelid Myoclonia Jeavons Syndrome](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/epilepsy-eyelid-myoclonia-jeavons-syndrome)

- [Epilepsy of Infancy with Migrating Focal Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/epilepsy-infancy-migrating-focal-seizures)

- [Epilepsy Myoclonic Absences](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/epilepsy-myoclonic-absences)

- [Developmental/Epileptic Encephalopathy with Spike Wave Activation In Sleep](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/dee-swas)

- [Fires Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/febrile-infection-related-epilepsy-syndrome)

- [Infantile Spasms (West Syndrome)](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/infantile-spasms-west-syndrome)

- [Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/juvenile-myoclonic-epilepsy)

- [Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS)](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/lennox-gastaut-syndrome)

- [Myoclonic Epilepsy in Infancy](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/myoclonic-epilepsy-infancy)

- [Panayiotopoulos Syndrome](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/panayiotopoulos-syndrome)

- [Progressive Myoclonic Epilepsies](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/progressive-myoclonic-epilepsies)

- [Reflex Epilepsies](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/reflex-epilepsies)

- [Self Limited Familial and Non-Familial Neonatal Infantile Seizures](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/self-limited-familial-and-non-familial-neonatal-infantile-seizures)

- [Self Limited Late Onset Occipital Epilepsy Gastaut Syndrome](/what-is-epilepsy/syndromes/self-limited-late-onset-occipital-epilepsy-gastaut-syndrome)


- [Facts & Statistics About Epilepsy](/what-is-epilepsy/statistics)

- [Español](/espanol)


- [Cambiemos Nuestra Historia](/espanol/nuestraepilepsia)

- [Crisis Epilépticas En Los Niños](/espanol/crisis-epilepticas-los-ninos)

- [Factores Que Pueden Provocar Crisis Epilépticas](/espanol/factores-que-pueden-provocar-crisis-epilepticas)

- [La Epilepsia En Las Mujeres](/espanol/epilepsia-las-mujeres)

- [Mas Información Y Recursos](/espanol/mas-informacion-y-recursos)

- [Primeros Auxilios Para Crisis Epilépticas](/espanol/primeros-auxilios-para-crisis-epilepticas)

- [SUDEP](/espanol/sudep)


- [Dia de Acción Contra SUDEP](/espanol/sudep/dia-de-accion-contra-sudep)

- [Seguridad General](/espanol/seguridad-general)

- [Trabajando Con Su Equipo Médico](/espanol/trabajando-con-su-equipo-medico)

- [Tratamientos](/espanol/tratamientos)


- [Causes of Epilepsy](/causes)


- [Structural Causes of Epilepsy](/causes/structural)


- [Focal Cortical Dysplasia](/causes/structural/focal-cortical-dysplasia)

- [Hypothalamic Hamartoma](/causes/structural/hypothalamic-hamartoma)

- [Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)](/causes/structural/hypoxic-ischemic-encephalopathy-hie)

- [Incontinentia Pigmenti](/causes/structural/incontinentia-pigmenti)

- [Mesial Temporal Sclerosis (MTS)](/causes/structural/mesial-temporal-sclerosis)

- [Neurofibromatosis Type 1](/causes/structural/neurofibromatosis-type-1)

- [Seizures And Multiple Sclerosis](/causes/structural/seizures-and-multiple-sclerosis)

- [Sturge Weber Syndrome Encephalotrigeminal Angiomatosis](/causes/structural/sturge-weber-syndrome-encephalotrigeminal-angiomatosis)

- [Traumatic Brain Injury and Epilepsy](/causes/structural/traumatic-brain-injury-and-epilepsy)

- [Periventricular Nodular Heterotopias (PVNH)](/causes/structural/periventricular-nodular-heterotopias-pvnh)

- [Polymicrogyria (PMG)](/causes/structural/polymicrogyria-pmg)

- [Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)](/causes/structural/tuberous-sclerosis-complex)

- [Brain Tumors](/causes/structural/brain-tumors)


- [Genetic Causes of Epilepsy](/causes/genetic)


- [Genetic Testing for Epilepsy](/causes/genetic/testing)

- [Angelman Syndrome](/causes/genetic/angelman-syndrome)

- [PCDH19 Epilepsy](/causes/genetic/pcdh19-epilepsy)

- [Ring Chromosome 20 Syndrome](/causes/genetic/ring-chromosome-20-syndrome)

- [CACNA1A-related Epilepsy](/causes/genetic/cacna1a-related-epilepsy)

- [CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder](/causes/genetic/cdkl5-disorder)

- [GRIN2A-related Epilepsy](/causes/genetic/grin2a-related-epilepsy)

- [KCNQ2](/causes/genetic/kcnq2)

- [SCN1A-Related Epilepsies](/causes/genetic/scn1a-related-epilepsies)

- [SCN8A-Related Epilepsy](/causes/genetic/scn8a-related-epilepsy)

- [SYNGAP1-Related Epilepsy](/causes/genetic/syngap1-related-epilepsy)

- [TBCK-related ID Syndrome](/causes/genetic/tbck-related)


- [Metabolic Causes of Epilepsy](/causes/metabolic)


- [Mitochondrial Disorders](/causes/metabolic/mitochondrial-disorders)

- [GLUT1 Deficiency Syndrome (SLC2A1)](/causes/metabolic/glut1)


- [Autoimmune Epilepsy](/causes/autoimmune)


- [Rasmussen's Syndrome](/causes/autoimmune/rasmussens-syndrome)


- [Infections That Cause Seizures](/causes/infections)


- [Diagnosis](/diagnosis)


- [Evaluation of Your Medical History](/diagnosis/medical-history)

- [Neurological Exam](/diagnosis/neurological-exam)

- [Electroencephalography (EEG)](/diagnosis/eeg)


- [EEG Procedure](/diagnosis/eeg/procedure)

- [Ambulatory EEG](/diagnosis/eeg/ambulatory)

- [Dry Electrode Headset EEG](/diagnosis/eeg/dry-electrode-headset)

- [How to Read an EEG](/diagnosis/eeg/how-read)

- [Video EEG Test](/diagnosis/eeg/video-eeg)

- [What if my EEG was normal?](/diagnosis/eeg/what-if-its-normal)

- [Where is EEG performed?](/diagnosis/eeg/where-its-performed)

- [Which EEG type is best?](/diagnosis/eeg/which-eeg-type-best-you)


- [Brain Imaging for Epilepsy](/diagnosis/brain-imaging)


- [Computer Tomography](/diagnosis/brain-imaging/computed-tomography)

- [MEG](/diagnosis/brain-imaging/magnetoencephalography)

- [MRI](/diagnosis/brain-imaging/mri)

- [PET Scan](/diagnosis/brain-imaging/pet)

- [SPECT](/diagnosis/brain-imaging/spect)


- [Imitators of Epilepsy](/diagnosis/imitators-epilepsy)


- [Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures (PNES)](/diagnosis/imitators-epilepsy/psychogenic-nonepileptic-seizures)


- [Assembling Your Healthcare Team](/diagnosis/healthcare-team)


- [Treatment](/treatment)


- [Your Role in Epilepsy Treatment](/treatment/role-treatment)

- [Seizure Medicines](/treatment/medicines)


- [North American AED Pregnancy Registry](/treatment/medicines/pregnancy/north-american-aed-pregnancy-registry)

- [When to Treat Seizures With Medicine](/treatment/medicines/treat-seizures-with-medicine)

- [Choosing a First Epilepsy Medicine](/treatment/medicines/choosing-first-medicine)

- [Seizure Medications With Children](/treatment/medicines/medications-children)

- [Finding the Best Dosage of Medication](/treatment/medicines/finding-best-dosage)

- [How Seizure Medicine Works](/treatment/medicines/how-medicines-work)

- [How Long Until Seizure Medicine Works?](/treatment/medicines/how-long-until-medicine-works)

- [Blood Testing for Seizure Medicine](/treatment/medicines/blood-testing)

- [Common Concerns with Epilepsy Medication](/treatment/medicines/common-concerns)

- [Importance of Medication Schedule](/treatment/medicines/medication-schedule)

- [Side Effects of Seizure Medicine](/treatment/medicines/side-effects)

- [Drug Interactions](/treatment/medicines/drug-interactions)

- [Stopping Seizure Medications](/treatment/medicines/stopping-medication)

- [How to Read a Package Insert](/treatment/medicines/how-read-package-insert)

- [Drug Resistant Epilepsy](/treatment/medicines/drug-resistant-epilepsy)


- [Treating Drug-Resistant Epilepsy](/treatment/medicines/drug-resistant-epilepsy/treating-drug-resistant-epilepsy)

- [What if Epilepsy Medicine Doesn't Work?](/treatment/medicines/when-medicines-do-not-work)


- [Seizure Devices](/treatment/devices)


- [Deep Brain Stimulation](/treatment/devices/deep-brain-stimulation)

- [Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)](/treatment/devices/responsive-neurostimulation)

- [Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Therapy](/treatment/devices/vagus-nerve-stimulation-therapy)

- [External Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation](/treatment/devices/external-trigeminal-nerve-stimulation)


- [Dietary Therapies](/treatment/dietary-therapies)


- [Ketogenic Diet](/treatment/dietary-therapies/ketogenic-diet)

- [Low Glycemic Index Treatment](/treatment/dietary-therapies/low-glycemic-index-treatment)

- [Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Diet](/treatment/dietary-therapies/medium-chain-triglyceride-diet)

- [Modified Atkins Diet](/treatment/dietary-therapies/modified-atkins-diet)


- [Epilepsy Centers](/treatment/epilepsy-centers)

- [Epilepsy Surgery](/treatment/surgery)


- [Epilepsy Surgery Tests](/treatment/surgery/tests-surgery)


- [Brain Mapping](/treatment/surgery/tests-surgery/brain-mapping)
- [Wada Test](/treatment/surgery/tests-surgery/wada-test)

- [Who Can Epilepsy Surgery Help?](/treatment/surgery/who-can-surgery-help)

- [Goals and Expectations](/treatment/surgery/goals-and-expectations)

- [Risks and Benefits of Epilepsy Surgery](/treatment/surgery/risks-and-benefits)

- [Types of Epilepsy Surgery](/treatment/surgery/types)


- [LITT Thermal Ablation](/treatment/surgery/types/litt-thermal-ablation)

- [Preparing for Epilepsy Surgery](/treatment/surgery/preparing)

- [Recovering After Epilepsy Surgery](/treatment/surgery/recovery)

- [Epilepsy Surgery for Children](/treatment/surgery/children)


- [When to Wean Children Off Medications After Surgery](/treatment/surgery/children/wean-children-medications)

- [Seizure Rescue Therapies](/treatment/seizure-rescue-therapies)


- [Nasal Rescue Medicines](/treatment/seizure-rescue-therapies/nasal-rescue-medicines)

- [Oral Rescue Medicines](/treatment/seizure-rescue-therapies/oral-rescue-medicines)

- [Rectal Rescue Medicines](/treatment/seizure-rescue-therapies/rectal-rescue-medicines)


- [Alternative Therapies](/treatment/alternative-therapies)


- [Herbal Therapies](/treatment/alternative-therapies/herbal-therapies)

- [Medical Marijuana](/treatment/alternative-therapies/medical-marijuana)


- [Clinical Trials](/treatment/clinical-trials)


- [Complications & Risks](/complications-risks)


- [Mood and Behavior](/complications-risks/moods-behavior)


- [Seizure Medications and Mood](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/medications)

- [Cognitive Therapies](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/cognitive-therapies)

- [Depression](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/depression)


- [Diagnosing Depression](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/depression/diagnosis)
- [Managing Depression](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/depression/managing)
- [Suicide Risk](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/depression/suicide-risk)

- [Epilepsy and ADHD](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/adhd)

- [Epilepsy and OCD](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/ocd)

- [Stress](/about/complications-risks/moods-behavior/stress-mood-and-seizures)


- [Causes and Signs of Stress](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/stress-mood-and-seizures)
- [Managing Stress](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/stress-mood-and-seizures/managing)
- [Mindfullness and Epilepsy](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/stress-mood-and-seizures/mindfullness)

- [Psychosis](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/psychosis)

- [Interictal Problems](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/interictal-problems)

- [Agression](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/aggression)

- [Anxiety](/complications-risks/moods-behavior/anxiety)


- [Early Death & SUDEP](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep)


- [How does SUDEP occur?](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/how-sudep-occurs)

- [How to Prevent SUDEP](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/preventing-sudep)

- [Support for Bereaved](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/support-bereaved)

- [Role of Seizure Alerts](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/role-seizure-alerts)

- [SUDEP Action Day](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/sudep-action-day)

- [Talking to Your Doctor About SUDEP](/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/talking-to-your-doctor-about-sudep)


- [Seizure Emergencies](/complications-risks/emergencies)


- [Seizure Clusters](/complications-risks/emergencies/seizure-clusters)

- [Status Epilepticus](/complications-risks/emergencies/status-epilepticus)

- [New-Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus (NORSE)](/complications-risks/emergencies/new-onset-refractory-status-epilepticus-norse)


- [Sleep and Epilepsy](/complications-risks/sleep)


- [Sleep and Seizure Medication](/complications-risks/sleep/asms)

- [Epilepsy Sleep Hygiene](/complications-risks/sleep/hygiene)

- [Sleep and Drowsiness and Memory](/complications-risks/sleep/drowsiness-memory)

- [Sleep Disorders](/complications-risks/sleep/disorders)


- [Social Concerns](/complications-risks/social-concerns)

- [Thinking and Memory](/complications-risks/thinking-and-memory)


- [Diagnosing And Treating Memory Problems](/complications-risks/thinking-and-memory/diagnosing-memory-problems)


- [Techniques to Help with Memory](/complications-risks/thinking-and-memory/diagnosing-memory-problems/memory-techniques)

- [Types of Memory Problems](/complications-risks/thinking-and-memory/types-memory-problems)


- [Bone Health](/complications-risks/bone-health)

- [COVID-19 and Epilepsy](/complications-risks/covid-19)


- [COVID-19 and Seizures](/complications-risks/covid-19/covid-19-and-seizures)

- [COVID-19 Vaccination & Epilepsy](/complications-risks/covid-19/vaccination)


- [Living With Epilepsy](/)Main Menu


- [Tracking & Managing Seizures](/manage)


- [Managing Triggers](/manage/managing-triggers)


- [How to Indentify Seizure Triggers](/manage/managing-triggers/identify-triggers)

- [The ABC Approach to Seizure Triggers](/manage/managing-triggers/abcs-triggers)

- [Lifestyle Modifications](/manage/managing-triggers/lifestyle-modifications)


- [Diet & Exercise to Reduce Seizures](/manage/managing-triggers/lifestyle-modifications/diet)

- [Tracking Seizures](/manage/tracking)


- [Seizure Observation](/manage/tracking/observation)

- [Using Seizure Diaries](/manage/tracking/seizure-diaries)


- [Responding to Seizure Emergencies](/manage/responding-seizure-emergencies)

- [Working With Your Healthcare Team](/manage/healthcare-team)


- [The Importance of Quality Care](/manage/healthcare-team/quality-care)

- [Setting Goals for Seizure Management](/manage/healthcare-team/setting-goals)

- [Managing Continued Seizures](/manage/healthcare-team/managing-continued-seizures)


- [Self-Management of Seizures](/manage/seizure-self-management)


- [Managing Epilepsy Well Network](/manage/managing-epilepsy-well-network)

- [Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP)](/manage/seizure-self-management/chronic-disease-self-management-program)


- [Seizure Preparedness](/preparedness-safety)


- [Schools and Seizure Preparedness](/preparedness-safety/schools)

- [Seizure Action Plans](/preparedness-safety/action-plans)

- [Seizure Drills](/preparedness-safety/drills)

- [Staying Safe](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe)


- [Safety at Work](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/safety-work)

- [Falling Safely](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/fall-safely)

- [Disaster Preparedness](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/disaster-preparedness)

- [Recognizing Risks](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/recognizing-risks)

- [Staying Safe With Exercise and Sports](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/safety-exercise-and-sports)

- [Safety at Home](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/safety-home)

- [Safety in the Kitchen](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/safety-kitchen)

- [Safety While Sleeping](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/safety-while-sleeping)

- [Types of Injuries From Seizures](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/types-injuries)

- [First Aid Video Library](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/videos-first-aid)

- [Staying Safe on Social Media](/preparedness-safety/staying-safe/social-media)


- [First Aid & Safety](/recognition)


- [Seizure First Aid Training and Certification](/recognition/first-aid-resources)


- [Babysitter's Guide to First Aid](/recognition/first-aid-resources/babysitters)

- [How to Manage Prolonged Seizures](/recognition/first-aid-resources/manage-prolonged-seizures)

- [Childcare Professionals and Babysitters' Guide to Seizure Disorders](/recognition/first-aid-resources/childcare-professionals-and-babysitters-guide-to-seizure-disorders)


- [Adapting First Aid Plans](/recognition/adapting-plans)


- [First Aid for Atonic and Tonic Seizures](/recognition/adapting-plans/first-aid-atonic-seizures)

- [First Aid for Focal Aware (simple partial) Seizures](/recognition/adapting-plans/first-aid-focal-aware)

- [First Aid for Focal Impaired Awareness (complex partial) Seizures](/recognition/adapting-plans/first-aid-focal-impaired)

- [First Aid for Tonic-Clonic Seizures](/recognition/adapting-plans/first-aid-tonic-clonic)

- [First Aid Absence Seizures](/recognition/adapting-plans/first-aid-absence-seizures)

- [First Aid for Seizures in Water](/recognition/adapting-plans/seizures-water)


- [Getting Emergency Help](/recognition/emergency-help)

- [Seizure Rescue Medications](/recognition/rescue-medications)

- [Help After a Seizure](/recognition/help-after-seizure)

- [Seizure Dogs](/recognition/seizure-dogs)


- [Rights to Having a Service Animal](/recognition/seizure-dogs/service-animal)

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- Ketogenic Diet

# Ketogenic Diet

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![](/sites/default/files/upload/image/Ketogenic-diet-AdobeStock-190780160-OG-TWjpg.jpg)

## What is the ketogenic diet?

The "classic" ketogenic diet is a special high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that helps to control seizures in some people with epilepsy. It is prescribed by a physician and carefully monitored by a dietitian. It is usually used in children with seizures that do not respond to [medications](/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/seizure-and-epilepsy-medicines). It is stricter than the [modified Atkins diet](/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/dietary-therapies/modified-atkins-diet), requiring careful measurements of calories, fluids, and proteins. Foods are weighed and measured.

- The name ketogenic means that it produces ketones in the body. (keto = ketone; genic = producing) Ketones are formed when the body uses fat for its source of energy.
- Usually the body uses carbohydrates (such as sugar, bread, pasta) for its fuel. Because the ketogenic diet is very low in carbohydrates, fats become the primary fuel instead. The body can work very well on ketones (and fats).
- Ketones are not dangerous. They can be detected in the urine, blood, and breath. Ketones are one of the more likely mechanisms of action of the diet, with higher ketone levels often leading to improved seizure control. However, there are many other theories for why the diet will work.

Learn More:

[Donate to Support Our Mission](/donate)

### Webinar Recording

In a January 23, 2019 webinar, Dr. Elaine Kiriakopoulos, Dr. Eric Kossoff, and Registered Dietitian Zahava Turner talked about the history, components, safety, effectiveness, recent developments, and more related to the use of ketogenic diets in the treatment of epilepsy.

**[Watch here](/stories/webinar-ketogenic-diets-high-fat-fewer-seizures)**

## Who will it help?

- Doctors usually recommend the ketogenic diet for children whose seizures have not responded to several different [seizure medicines](/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/seizure-and-epilepsy-medicines).
- The classic diet is usually not recommended for adults, mostly because the restricted food choices make it hard to follow. However, the [modified Atkins diet](/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/dietary-therapies/modified-atkins-diet) does work well. This also should be done with a good team of adult neurologists and dietitians.

  - Find more [information about adults and diets](http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/neurology_neurosurgery/centers_clinics/epilepsy/adult/adult-epilepsy-diet-center).
  - Read an article about [results from a large adult epilepsy diet center](/article/2016/5/new-results-large-adult-epilepsy-diet-center).
- The ketogenic diet has been shown in many studies to be particularly helpful for some epilepsy conditions. These include [infantile spasms](/learn/types-epilepsy-syndromes/infantile-spasms-wests-syndrome), Rett syndrome, [tuberous sclerosis complex](/learn/types-epilepsy-syndromes/neurocutaneous-syndromes/tuberous-sclerosis-complex-tsc), [Dravet syndrome](/learn/types-epilepsy-syndromes/dravet-syndrome), [Doose syndrome](/learn/types-epilepsy-syndromes/doose-syndrome), and [GLUT-1 deficiency](/learn/types-epilepsy-syndromes/glut1-deficiency-syndrome). Using a formula-only ketogenic diet for infants and gastrostomy-tube fed children may lead to better compliance and possibly even improved efficacy.
- Recent studies have also shown that infants can be successfully started on dietary therapy too.
  - Read an article about the [ketogenic diet for neonates](/article/2017/1/ketogenic-diet-neonates).
  - Learn about [Ketogenic Guidelines for Infants](/article/2016/8/ketogenic-diet-guidelines-infants).
- The diet works well for children with [focal seizures](/learn/types-seizures), but may be less likely to lead to an immediate seizure-free result.
- In general, the diet can always be considered as long as there are no clear metabolic or mitochondrial reasons not to use it.
- The diet is sometimes started to help reduce or even stop anti-seizure drugs. However, that does not always occur – often it is a “partnership” between drugs and food to help reduce seizures that works.

## What is it like?

- The typical "classical" ketogenic diet, called the "long-chain triglyceride diet," provides 3 to 4 grams of fat for every 1 gram of carbohydrate and protein. That is about 90% of calories from fat.
- Usually when the classic ketogenic diet is prescribed, the total calories are matched to the number of calories the person needs. For example, if a child is eating a 1500 calorie regular diet, it would be changed to a 1500 calorie ketogenic diet. For very young children only, the diet may be prescribed based on weight, for example 75 to 100 calories for each kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight. If it sounds complicated, it is! That’s why people need a dietician’s help when using this diet.
- A ketogenic diet "ratio" is the ratio of fat to carbohydrate and protein grams combined.
  - A 4:1 ratio is more strict than a 3:1 ratio and is typically used for most children.
  - A 3:1 ratio is typically used for infants, adolescents, and children who require higher amounts of protein or carbohydrate for some other reason.
- The kinds of foods that provide fat for the ketogenic diet are butter, heavy whipping cream, mayonnaise, and oils (e.g., canola or olive).
- Because the amount of carbohydrate and protein in the diet have to be restricted, it is very important to prepare meals carefully.
- No other sources of carbohydrates can be eaten.
- The ketogenic diet is supervised by
  - a dietician who monitors the child's nutrition and can teach parents and the child what can and cannot be eaten
  - a neurologist who monitors medications and overall benefits

## What happens first?

- Typically the diet is started in the hospital. The child traditionally begins by fasting (except for water) under close medical supervision for 18-24 hours. The diet is then started, either by slowly increasing the calories or the ratio. (This is the typical Johns Hopkins Hospital protocol.)
- There is growing evidence that fasting is probably not necessary for long-term efficacy, although it does lead to a quicker onset of ketosis. Most centers today do NOT start with a fasting period.
- The primary reason for admission in most centers is to monitor for any increase in seizures on the diet, ensure all medications are carbohydrate-free, and educate the families.

## Does it work?

[Several studies](/stories) have shown that the ketogenic diet does reduce or prevent seizures in many children whose seizures could not be controlled by medications.

- Over half of children who go on the diet have at least a 50% reduction in the number of their seizures.
- Some children, usually 10-15%, even become seizure-free.

## Tell me more

- Children who are on the ketogenic diet continue to take [seizure medicines](/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/seizure-and-epilepsy-medicines).
- Some are able to take smaller doses or fewer medicines than before they started the diet. This is usually attempted after 1 month on the diet.
- If the person goes off the diet for even one meal, it may lose its good effect. So it is very important to stick with the diet as prescribed.
- Being on a diet allows for a sense of control over seizures by a parent (or person living with epilepsy). Many families comment on this and the how their ability to cook helps their child.
- Most major pediatric hospitals (and countries) have [ketogenic diet centers](https://www.ilae.org/patient-care/ketogenic-diets/international-centers/international-ketogenic-diet-centers) – just ask!

Learn More:

[Contact Our Helpline](/helpline)

## Are there any side effects?

- A person starting the ketogenic diet may feel sluggish for a few days after the diet is started. This can worsen if a child is sick at the same time as the diet is started.
- Make sure to encourage carbohydrate-free fluids during illnesses.
- Other side effects that might occur if the person stays on the diet for a long time are
  - Kidney stones
  - High cholesterol levels in the blood
  - Constipation
  - Slowed growth
  - Bone fractures

## Are any other medicine changes needed?

- Because the diet does not provide all the vitamins and minerals found in a balanced diet, the dietician will recommend vitamin and mineral supplements. The most important of these are calcium and vitamin D (to prevent thinning of the bones), B Vitamins, and selenium.
- There are no anticonvulsants (seizure medicines) that should be stopped while on the diet. [Topiramate](/medications/topiramate) (Topamax) and [zonisamide](/medications/zonisamide) (Zonegran) do not have a higher risk of kidney stones while on the diet, but zonisamide can increase the chance of stones.
- Medication levels do not likely change while on the diet according to recent studies.
- All medications should be in as carbohydrate/sugar-free a form as possible to avoid hidden sugars. Most liquids are changed by pharmacists to pills.

## How is the patient monitored over time?

- Early on, the doctor will usually see the child every 1 to 3 months.
- Blood and urine tests are performed to make sure there are no medical problems.
- The height and weight are measured to see if growth has slowed down.

## Can the diet ever be stopped?

If seizures have been well controlled for some time, usually 2 years, the doctor might suggest going off the diet.

- Usually, the person is gradually taken off the diet over several months or even longer. Seizures may worsen if the ketogenic diet is stopped all at once.
- Children usually continue to take seizure medicines after they go off the diet.
- In many situations, the diet has led to significant, but not total, seizure control. Families may choose to remain on the ketogenic diet for many years in these situations.

## Where can I find out more information about the diet?

- [Epilepsy.com's Keto News](/stories/search?f%5B0%5D=topics_tag%3A34511) includes summaries of cutting edge research and helpful hints for people with epilepsy, parents, and caregivers who receive or provide diets for the treatment of epilepsy.
- One book available is, "The Ketogenic Diet: A Treatment for Children and Others with Epilepsy," by Dr. Kossoff and his team, which discusses the Johns Hopkins approach and experience.
- [The Charlie Foundation](http://www.charliefoundation.org) and [Matthew’s Friends](http://www.matthewsfriends.org) are parent-run organizations for support.
- Watch [Dr. Eric Kossoff](/about-us/about-foundation/our-editors/eric-kossoff-md) in " [The Promise and Challenge of Dietary Therapy for Epilepsy](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78WdfhRVPdk)" at the [George Washington University Epilepsy Grand Rounds](/living-epilepsy/epilepsy-and/professional-health-care-providers/george-washington-university-epilepsy-center-grand-rounds-series) on March 8, 2016.
- [Keto Hope Foundation](https://ketohope.org/)

The Promise and Challenge of Dietary Therapy for Epilepsy - Dr. Eric Kossoff - 3/8/16

- In an interview for CNN en Español, Dr. Joseph Sirven explains the basics of the ketogenic diet. Find more information in Spanish about epilepsy [here](/living-epilepsy/epilepsy-and/la-epilepsia).

Description of the Ketogenic Diet in Spanish / Descripción de la Dieta Ketogénica en Español

Authored By:

Eric Kossoff MD

on Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Reviewed By:

Joseph I. Sirven MD

on Wednesday, October 25, 2017

[Previous](/treatment/dietary-therapies)

Dietary Therapies

[Next](/treatment/dietary-therapies/low-glycemic-index-treatment)

Low Glycemic Index Treatment

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