The Curious Clinicians 79 - Kurious Keto
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Oct 19, 2023 This episode explores the use and effectiveness of a ketogenic diet for controlling seizures in refractory epilepsy. It discusses the origins and effectiveness of the diet, the potential anti-convulsant properties of acetone, and the historical use of dietary therapy for epilepsy.
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Ketogenic Diet Mimics Starvation
- Ketogenic diets mimic starvation, inducing a pseudo-starvation state.
- The body, used to glucose, utilizes ketones for fuel instead.
Origins of Ketogenic Diet for Epilepsy
- Physician Hugh Conklin theorized epilepsy originated in the intestines, attempting starvation cures.
- Russell Wilder realized the ketotic state, not starvation itself, controlled epilepsy.
Clinical Trials on Ketogenic Diets and Epilepsy
- A 1924 clinical trial showed ketogenic diets were more effective than available epileptics (bromides, phenobarbital).
- A 2020 Cochrane review confirmed their benefit, especially in children.