calculator

 

      Benefits of the ketogenic diet and risk factors 

The ketogenic diet is infact a cure for epilepsy

the keto diet was developed in the 1920s as a treatment for epilepsy, especially in children who didn’t respond to medication. Dr. Russell Wilder at the Mayo Clinic coined the term “ketogenic diet” and designed it to mimic the effects of fasting by inducing ketosis. In this metabolic state, the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.

 Fasting as treatment. Fasting had long been used to treat epilepsy. Ancient Greek physicians, including Hippocrates, noted its therapeutic effects. In the early 1900s, Hugh Conklin, an osteopath, used extended fasting to treat epileptic children, believing it flushed out intestinal toxins. The ketogenic diet has a fascinating origin rooted in medical science and ancient practices. Here's a breakdown of its historical journey.

ketogenic diet being used in the Early 20th Century: The keto diet was developed in the 1920s as a treatment for epilepsy, especially in children who didn’t respond to medication. Dr. Russell Wilder at the Mayo Clinic coined the term “ketogenic diet” and designed it to mimic the effects of fasting by inducing ketosis. In this metabolic state, the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. Before keto, Fasting had long been used to treat epilepsy. Ancient Greek physicians, including Hippocrates, noted its therapeutic effects. In the early 1900s, Hugh Conklin, an osteopath, used extended fasting to treat epileptic children, believing it flushed out intestinal toxins.

• Metabolic & Weight Benefits

• Rapid Weight Loss: Ketogenic diet helps the body switch from burning carbs to burning fat, often resulting in faster initial weight loss compared to low-fat diets.

• Reduced Appetite: High-fat, low-carb meals tend to be more satiating, which naturally reduces hunger and calorie intake.
• Targeted Fat Loss: Keto is particularly effective at reducing visceral fat—the dangerous fat stored around organs—which lowers the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

🧠 Cognitive & Neurological Support

• Improved Brain Function: Ketones are a more efficient fuel for the brain, potentially enhancing mental clarity and focus.

• Seizure Reduction: Originally developed to treat epilepsy, the keto diet can reduce seizures, especially in children with drug-resistant epilepsy.

• ❤️ Cardiovascular & Hormonal Health

• Better Heart Health: Keto may improve cholesterol profiles by increasing HDL (good cholesterol) and reducing triglycerides.

• Improved PCOS Symptoms: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may benefit from reduced insulin levels and hormonal balance.

🧬 Anti-Inflammatory & Disease Prevention

• Reduced Inflammation: Many report less joint pain and inflammation, possibly due to lower sugar intake and stable insulin levels.

• Cancer Risk Reduction: Some studies suggest keto may help slow the growth of certain cancers by depriving them of glucose.
• Improved Acne: Lower insulin levels and reduced sugar intake may help clear up skin issues like acne.

Common Short-Term Side Effects

• • Keto Flu: Fatigue, headaches, irritability, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia as your body adapts to burning fat instead of carbs.
• • Digestive Issues: Constipation due to low fiber intake, and “keto breath” caused by acetone buildup.
• • Muscle Cramps: Often linked to electrolyte imbalances, especially low sodium.
• • Low Libido: Some people report a temporary dip in sexual desire.
• 🧬 Long-Term Risks
• • Nutrient Deficiencies: Restricting fruits, grains, and legumes can lead to shortages in vitamins and minerals.
• • Kidney Stress: High intake of animal proteins may increase the risk of kidney stones and worsen chronic kidney conditions.
• • Gut Health Changes: Reduced fiber can alter gut bacteria and lead to digestive discomfort.