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How to Do Keto for Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain that leads to seizures, which are sudden and involuntary movements of the body. While there are many different treatments available for epilepsy, one method that has been gaining popularity in recent years is the ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet, or keto for short, is a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that has been proven to help reduce the occurrence of seizures in people with epilepsy. If you’re interested in learning how to do keto for epilepsy, keep reading!
Method 1: Consult with Your Doctor
Before starting any new diet or exercise program, it’s important to consult with your doctor first. This is especially true if you’re dealing with a medical condition like epilepsy. Your doctor will be able to provide you with guidance and recommendations based on your specific condition and medical history. They can also help you figure out if the ketogenic diet is a good option for you and provide you with instructions on how to get started.
Method 2: Assess Your Macros
Once you’ve spoken with your doctor and received their approval to start the ketogenic diet, the next step is to assess your macros. The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet, so you’ll need to make sure that you’re getting enough fat in your diet while also limiting your carb intake. Generally, a good starting point is to aim for a daily intake of around 70% fat, 25% protein, and 5% carbs.
To do this, you’ll need to calculate your daily macros. There are plenty of online calculators available that can help you figure out your daily calorie needs and macro ratios based on your age, height, weight, and activity level. Once you have your numbers, you can start planning your meals and snacks around those ratios.
Method 3: Focus on Whole Foods
While there are plenty of processed foods available that are technically “keto-friendly”, it’s important to prioritize whole foods in your diet. This means focusing on lean proteins, healthy fats like avocados and nuts, and low-carb vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, and broccoli. By choosing whole foods, you’ll be able to ensure that you’re getting plenty of nutrients in your diet while also staying within your macro ratios.
One great way to do this is to plan your meals ahead of time. By prepping all of your meals and snacks in advance, you’ll be less likely to turn to processed foods when you’re hungry and pressed for time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ketogenic diet is an effective way to help reduce the occurrence of seizures in people with epilepsy. By consulting with your doctor, assessing your macros, and focusing on whole foods, you can start reaping the benefits of this diet for your epilepsy. Once you get started, be patient with yourself and stick with the diet for at least a few weeks before making any changes. Over time, you’ll likely notice improvements in your seizure frequency and overall health.