Is There an Alternative Way of Treating Drug Resistant Epilepsy? The Effects of the Ketogenic Diet in Children With Intractable Epilepsy

Many children with epilepsy experience seizures that cannot be resolved with medication. Since surgical intervention is not always an option, the ketogenic diet (KD). a high fat, low carbohydrate and protein diet, offers a chance for seizure reduction and in some cases freedom from seizures and medication. Side effects do exist, although none are serious. Efficacy has been proven through many studies. The mechanism of the KD's effectiveness is still unknown, although several hypotheses exist, including the theory that ketone bodies themselves are anticonvulsant, and the hypothesis that glucose restriction stops seizures. Adenosine A1 receptors are also thought to have a role in seizure reduction. Additionally, some researchers believe that ketone bodies provide the brain with energy to withstand seizures, although there are contradictions to this theory. Finally, the KD may play a neuroprotective role in the treatment of epilepsy.