Ketogenic Diet Therapy in Adults

The Ketogenic Diet for years has always been perdominately used for children. There has been little in the way of research as far as how effective this diet is in adults, and is just recently being used by several comprehensive epilepsy centers around the U.S. in an attempt to help adults with refractory epilepsy. Studies done at various hospitals around the United States show that adults with partial and generalized seizures can benifit from this form of therapy. The key to being sucessful with this therapy is being committed and complying with the strictness of the diet, so as to maintain large ketosis for many months.This means only taking certain medications, using certain toothpaste and measuring to the gram for every meal.On an average studies show that there is approximately a 50% reduction in seizure activity. In addition there is usually an improvement in cognitive abilities and energy levels. The diet does not work for everyone and it has a 50/50 success rate so far. It is also not known what, if any, adverse effects the diet has on overall health. The most common complaints are constipation, bloating and gastrointestinal problems. Females reported menstrual iregularities such as missed cycles. Additional studies are needed to look into the safety of this diet in adults. One concern is that it has been shown to decrease bone density and is unclear if this will lead to osteoperosis later on in women. Another concern is acidosis that goes along with being in ketosis. If too high can cause lethargy and decreased urinary output. Currently adults are put on this therapy for 2 years, as is done with children, at a 4:1 ratio. If You are an adult considering this diet, The Brain Mapping Center of Orange County, California and UCLA, are both very experienced in using this form of therapy on adults. It is an option worth looking into if you have been on more than two traditional drug therapies and/or surgery. It is a lot of work and takes a whole lot of will power but for those adults whose seizures have been decreased it is worth it. If you would like more information or wish to talk with someone on the diet you may e-mail me at: aroma@elite.net Or if you are on the diet and would like help in creating recipies or support you may also e-mail me.

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