The ketogenic diet involved eating a combination of high fat and low carbohydrate foods. As the body usually uses carbohydrates for energy, the diet is designed to force the body to burn off fat instead as an alternative energy source. For this reason, the diet has become popular in the diet world. There has also been a link between the ketogenic diet and positive results with epilepsy sufferers in reducing seizures. It is thought that the diet causes your body to produce chemicals called ketones that help to decrease epileptic seizures.

There are 4 different types of ketogenic diets, your doctor or nutritionist can help you decide which one will work best for you.

-The classic ketogenic diet allows for about three to four grams of fat per gram of carbohydrate and protein you eat. This mean limiting carbohydrates and proteins, and carefully weighing or measuring foods. Heavy cream, vegetable oils and butter provide the fat. Sweets such as refined sugars, candy, cookies and desserts are not allowed.

-The modified Atkins diet limits carbohydrates to 10 to 20 grams per day. Protein, fats, fluids, and calories are not limited.

-The Low Glycemic index (GI) diet limits carbohydrates to 40 to 60 grams per day. Protien, fat, and total calories are not limited. The carbohydrates you eat however, must have a low GI. GI is the rate at which the food raises your blood sugar levels. Low GI foods raise your blood sugar levels slower than high GI foods. The carbohydrates must have a GI of 50 or less. Examples of carbohydrates allowed are whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, lentils, and sunflower seeds.  Vegetables you can eat include eggplant, tomatoes, beets and lettuce. Fruits allowed are fresh pineapple, peaches, and apples.

-A medium-chain triglyceride diet includes a high amount of a type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). MCT can produce more ketones than other types of fats. On this diet you can eat more carbohydrates and proteins than on the other ketogenic diets.

There may be some side effects from the ketogenic diet, such a low blood sugar levels, dehydration, weight loss and fatigue. Over time your cholesterol levels may rise.

The ketogenic diet is a big commitment and it is important to follow the diet as directed by your health care practitioner. Continue to take seizure medication as directed and measure your ketones regularly.