For more than a century, the keto diet has played a vital role in the treatment of epilepsy and other similar illnesses. Recently, a Massachusetts research report1 indicated that epileptic seizures brought on by Angelman syndrome2 – a genetic disorder affecting the nervous system – can be reduced or eliminated by following a strict, low-glycemic index diet.
The Treatment
In 2002, the Low Glycemic Index Treatment (LGIT) was initially seen as an alternative to the keto diet.3 At a skeletal level, the diets are remarkably similar but the LGIT allows patients to base decisions off portion size rather than exact weight and measurement; this can make it easier to eat at restaurants and affords patients a somewhat more flexible diet. In addition to the flexibility, the LGIT allows an increase in carbohydrates as well as good fats but limits the carbohydrate options to those which fall in a lower glycemic index – causing the body to adapt to lower glycemic levels and ultimately reducing the frequency and severity of seizures. Participants in the study maintained the diet for an average of three years.4
The Results
More than half the participants in the study saw a 90 percent reduction in seizures. The study focused exclusively on seizures, but patients also saw positive weight results, behavioral improvements, and improvement in overall health. Parents noted particularly positive responses from children participating in the study, something that research suggests overlaps with children who adopt a keto diet.
The link between glycemic levels and seizures seems to be reaffirmed again and again. As additional research is conducted on both the LGIT and the keto diet, the general population is becoming more aware of the dangers of a high-glycemic diet and demanding a change in sugar consumption.
LGIT and the Keto Diet
As the LGIT was brought about as a response to the keto diet, it is reasonable that the two should find themselves aligned and contrasted by dietitians and those in search of better health. The keto diet is more targeted toward weight and general health, requiring near-absolute dedication to a long-term plan. By following a more rigid diet – one with substantially fewer carbohydrates – those who adhere to the keto diet are able to eliminate unwanted pounds at a more rapid pace than those who apply the LGIT. That said, the correlation between the two diets and the relative similarity of results may guide the dieter finding a suitable lifestyle path.
Though the study demonstrated positive results, it is still unclear why such a diet impacts the nervous system in this way. Similar to the keto diet, it is believed that the lower glycemic levels and increase of ketones have a healing effect on the brain. As with any significant change in diet or exercise, it is wise to consult with a physician and apply caution when starting or stopping suddenly.
NUTRITIONAL DISCLAIMER
The content on this website should not be taken as medical advice and you should ALWAYS consult with your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program. We provide nutritional data for our recipes as a courtesy to our readers. We use Total Keto Diet app software to calculate the nutrition and we remove fiber and sugar alcohols, like erythritol, from the total carbohydrate count to get to the net carb count, as they do not affect your blood glucose levels. You should independently calculate nutritional information on your own and not rely on our data. The website or content herein is not intended to cure, prevent, diagnose or treat any disease. This website shall not be liable for adverse reactions or any other outcome resulting from the use of recipes or recommendations on the Website or actions you take as a result. Any action you take is strictly at your own risk.
Dr. Rosmy Barrios, MD is an aesthetic medicine specialist whose work focuses on patients who are treated for obesity, metabolic syndrome, and other weight-related issues through nutritional analysis, keto diet programs, and supporting medications.
- Parenting and Language: Sugar - January 29, 2019
- Beyond Diet: Reasons For Weight Gain - January 24, 2019
- Where Every Diet Should Begin: At Home - January 15, 2019
