The ketogenic diet, or “keto” for short, is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been around since the 1920s. The idea behind it is to trick your body into thinking it’s in a state of fasting, by giving it high-fat, low-carb meals. And guess what? It works! It’s been known to reduce seizures in people with epilepsy and even provide other health benefits like weight loss, better blood sugar control and improved cholesterol levels.
Here’s the catch though, it’s a strict diet and it requires a lot of planning, monitoring and discipline. But don’t worry, you don’t have to go it alone! You’ll have a team of healthcare professionals to guide you through the process, making sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
During the initial stages, you’ll be closely monitored and your food intake will be adjusted as needed. Once you’re comfortable with the diet, you’ll continue to work with your team to make sure everything is going smoothly.
The diet typically includes high amounts of fat, moderate amounts of protein, and very low amounts of carbohydrates. So say goodbye to your carb-loving ways and hello to butter, cream, bacon and other high-fat meats. Vegetables like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds also make an appearance on the menu.
It’s important to note that the ketogenic diet isn’t for everyone and it can have some side effects like constipation, diarrhea and an increased risk of kidney stones. So before you jump on the keto bandwagon, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional to see if it’s the right fit for you.
In short, the ketogenic diet is an effective treatment for epilepsy that can also provide other health benefits, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting and understand the potential side effects. But hey, who doesn’t love bacon?
