The effectiveness of the ketogenic diet in reducing the frequency of seizures in children diagnosed with refractory epilepsy
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DOI: 10.25236/gemfe.2022.023
Corresponding Author
Huanqin Chen
Abstract
Refractory epilepsy in children is defined as not responding to anti-epileptic drugs and has many adverse effects on children's quality and life, and it may even result in risks of sudden death. Therefore, it is significant to find an alternative and effective treatment to reduce the frequency of seizures and improve the quality of life of children diagnosed with refractory epilepsy. The purpose of this paper is to critically review the past studies and determine the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet in the reduction of seizures in children with refractory epilepsy. The secondary outcome of this paper is to consider the drastic effects the KD has on the quality of life, including adverse side effects, the restrictiveness of the diet, and other implications. In conclusion, it is determined that the ketogenic diet is a viable, safe, and overall tolerable treatment for children with refractory epilepsy; however long-term efficacy of the diet is extremely difficult and is likely a more viable option for short-term treatment.
Keywords
Refractory epilepsy, anti-epileptic drugs, seizure, ketogenic diet, modified Atkins diet