Therapeutic Effects of Ketogenic Diet in the Treatment of Epilepsy

Epilepsy is characterized by seizures due to abnormal discharge of nerve impulses from the brain. Antiepileptic drugs are used to counter these seizures. However, in some types and severities in epilepsy where seizures are resistant to drugs, ketogenic diet (high in fat and low in carbohydrates) is used. In this review beneficial effects of ketogenic diet have been explored in treating epilepsy. It is used as a standard treatment for refractory epilepsy and has showed positive effects in treating all types of epilepsy, in all ages, especially in children. These findings were supported by previous studies which proved that ketogenic diet optimized the therapeutic effects against epilepsy by decreasing the oxidative stress, neuronal damage and enhancing the function of mitochondria. However, the exact mechanism of ketogenic diet in the treatment of epilepsy is still unknown but it can be used as potential therapy for children. More researches are needed to conclude the same for adults.