Modified

Atkins Diet for Epilepsy.

Modified Atkins Diet for Epilepsy (MADE) is a dietary therapy used primarily to treat epilepsy in children and adults. It is a variant of the Atkins diet, which is a low-carbohydrate diet that has been modified to be more suitable for the treatment of epilepsy.

History

The Modified Atkins Diet for Epilepsy was first developed in the early 2000s by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. It was designed as a less restrictive alternative to the ketogenic diet, which is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been used to treat epilepsy since the 1920s.

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism by which the MADE reduces seizures is not fully understood. However, it is believed to work in a similar way to the ketogenic diet, by forcing the body to burn fats rather than carbohydrates for energy. This process produces ketone bodies, which are thought to have an anticonvulsant effect.

Efficacy

Several studies have shown that the MADE can be effective in reducing seizures in individuals with epilepsy who have not responded to antiepileptic drugs. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of the diet.

Side Effects

Like all diets, the MADE can have side effects. These can include weight loss, constipation, and a higher risk of heart disease due to the high fat content of the diet. However, these risks can be managed with careful monitoring and adjustments to the diet.

See Also

• Ketogenic diet
• Atkins diet
• Epilepsy
• Dietary therapy