Epilepsy and a high fat diet

A UK trial feeding children with epilepsy a high fat diet reduced the number of fits they experienced by a third. The diet appears to mimic the effects of starvation, change metabolism and produce ketones which help reduce seizures.
Researchers are calling for the diet to be more available on the NHS. It consists of low amounts of carbohydrate, controlled amounts of protein but a very high intake of fat.

However, such a diet is not without risks. Side effects included constipation, vomiting, lack of energy and hunger. Not to mention the long term risks of heart disease, obesity and diabetes – a growing problem amongst our childhood population, as demonstrated by Too fat to Toddle – A TV documentary highlighting the horrors of childhood obesity.