Recent advances in our understanding of the ketogenic diet (KD)-a high-fat, low-carbohydrate, adequate-protein diet used for the treatment of medically intractable epilepsy-have produced a resurgence of interest in, and application of, this valuable treatment for the epileptic patient. In Epilepsy and the Ketogenic Diet, internationally recognized researchers and clinicians from around the world synthesize the current state of the science and clinical practice of the KD. On the basic science side, the authors review what is known about the basic biochemical mechanisms of action of the KD at the molecular level, spelling out in detail its complex interactions with nutrient components, neurodevelopment, brain biochemistry, and physiology. They also examine the effects of the KD on the metabolism of fats, amino acids, and carbohydrates in the central nervous system at both the macro and cellular levels. On the clinical side, physicians, dietitians, and nurses provide a full range of information concerning the treatment of seizures with KD, including a detailed assessment of the indications for, and the contraindications and/or complications that arise from its use, detailed equations that permit the caregiver to calculate the actual amounts of different types of foods that can be included in daily diet plans, and documented information on the carbohydrate and calorie content of hundreds of commonly used drugs. Numerous relevant tables, graphs, and figures, as well as up-to-date references, consistent use of terms across chapters, and a highly annotated index ensure easy access to needed information.
Illuminating and highly practical, Epilepsy and the Ketogenic Diet constitutes a unique benchmark synthesis of up-to-date clinical and scientific information that explains the mechanisms behind the KD and how its maximum therapeutic benefits may be realized in the epileptic patient with minimal adverse effects.