Dietary Therapies

 

Dietary therapy is an approach to help control seizures, usually in conjunction with seizure medications.

  • The classic ketogenic diet, a special high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, is prescribed and monitored by a physician and nutritionist and can help control seizures in some people. It can help both children and adults with refractory seizures.
  • Additionally, the modified Atkins Diet, which has some similar components to the traditional ketogenic diet, can be effective.

This section presents information and monthly updates about these dietary therapies and others (like the Low Glycemic Index treatment) and how they might be helpful to people with epilepsy.

Factsheet

Download this factsheet to learn about the 4 major types of dietary therapy used to treat epilepsy, including the ketogenic diet, Medium-chain triglyceride diet (MCT), Modified Atkins Diet (MAD), and Low Glycemic Index Treatment (LGIT).

Authored By:

Eric Kossoff MD

on Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Reviewed By:

Joseph I. Sirven MD and Patricia O. Shafer RN, MN

on Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Resources

Epilepsy Centers

Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.

>

Epilepsy Medication

Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.

>

Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline

Call our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.

>

Tools & Resources

Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.

>

Find an Epilepsy Specialist

Ready for help? Find an Epilepsy specialist who can help guide you through your epilepsy journey.