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The ketogenic diet: adolescents can do it, too
Mackenzie A Mady1, Eric H Kossoff, Amy L McGregor
1Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Epilepsia
|June 7, 2003
Summary
The ketogenic diet shows good efficacy and tolerability in adolescents with epilepsy, similar to younger children. Compliance remains significant at 12 months, with multiple seizure types benefiting most.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Epilepsy affects adolescents, requiring effective treatment options.
- The ketogenic diet is a recognized therapy for pediatric epilepsy.
- Adolescent-specific data on ketogenic diet efficacy and compliance is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and compliance of the ketogenic diet in adolescents with epilepsy.
- To assess long-term outcomes and side effects in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 45 adolescent patients (aged 12-19) enrolled in a ketogenic diet program.
- Data collected from 1994-2002 at two major medical institutions.
- Telephone follow-up to assess diet adherence and outcomes.
Main Results:
- 62% of patients remained on the ketogenic diet at 6 months, with significant seizure reduction in 50% of those.
- 44% adhered to the diet at 12 months, with substantial seizure control in 65% of this subgroup.
- Weight loss and menstrual dysfunction were common side effects; restrictiveness led to discontinuation in 22%.
Conclusions:
- The ketogenic diet is well-tolerated and efficacious in adolescents with epilepsy.
- Outcomes are comparable to those observed in the general pediatric population.
- Further research into adolescent-specific adherence factors may be beneficial.