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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
San Jose, CA
March 25
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MyEpilepsyTeam

Have you tried intermittent fasting, and did it help with seizures?

While intermittent fasting isn't specifically mentioned in epilepsy research, several dietary approaches have shown promise for seizure control. These diets focus on changing how your body uses energy, which may be similar to what happens during fasting Show Full Answer

Have you tried intermittent fasting, and did it help with seizures?

While intermittent fasting isn't specifically mentioned in epilepsy research, several dietary approaches have shown promise for seizure control. These diets focus on changing how your body uses energy, which may be similar to what happens during fasting periods.

The most studied diets for epilepsy include:

* Ketogenic diet (high-fat, very low-carb)
* Modified Atkins diet (less restrictive than keto)
* Low glycemic index treatment (LGIT)
* Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) diet

Studies show that about half of people trying the ketogenic diet experienced at least a 50% reduction in seizures, with some becoming seizure-free.

Important considerations:

These diets require careful medical supervision and planning with a nutritionist or dietitian. They can be challenging to maintain long-term and may cause side effects like constipation.

Before trying intermittent fasting or making any dietary changes, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if a specific eating pattern is safe for you and won't interfere with your seizure medications.

A MyEpilepsyTeam member's experience with dietary approaches might differ from yours, so personalized medical guidance is essential.

March 25
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Fasting, I never thought about it.

March 27
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I do 16:8 intermittent fasting. I try to eat high protein, healthy foods & mindful eating. Use a food scale & drink only water, tea or coffee. I have refractory (drug resistant), but with this, my seizures have greatly reduced.

March 25 (edited)
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

No but speaking of this i have to.fast next week

March 25
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Keto helps
Carbohydrates lower the effective levels of many seizure meds.

March 25

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