Ketogenic diet
Also written as: KD — Ketogenic diet
A high-fat, low-carbohydrate medical diet used as a treatment for epilepsy, particularly in children with refractory seizures.
Full Definition
The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, adequate-protein, low-carbohydrate medical treatment that has been used for epilepsy since the 1920s. The diet forces the body to burn fats rather than carbohydrates, producing ketones that may have anticonvulsant properties. Typically, the classical ketogenic diet provides 80-90% of calories from fat, with strict ratios maintained between fat and combined protein plus carbohydrates (usually 4:1 or 3:1). The diet requires careful medical supervision, including regular monitoring of growth, nutritional status, and potential side effects. Modified versions include the modified Atkins diet and low glycemic index treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from ketogenic diets used for weight loss, which are less restrictive medical interventions.
In Context
- "The ketogenic diet achieved a 50% reduction in seizure frequency within three months of initiation." — Treatment outcome documentation
- "Careful monitoring of ketosis and growth parameters is essential during ketogenic diet therapy." — Clinical management guidelines