Key Highlights: 

• Understand the importance of dietary changes in epilepsy management. 
• Explore different dietary therapies, such as the ketogenic diet, modified Atkins diet, and low glycaemic index diet. 
• Learn about collaboration with healthcare professionals in personalized dietary plans. 
• Identify potential food triggers for seizures and strategies to avoid them. 
• Implement lifestyle changes including physical activity, sleep, stress management, and building a support network. 
• Discover how to balance independence, safety, and social life while living with epilepsy. 
   

Introduction 

Epilepsy is a brain disorder where in a person suffers from repeated unprovoked seizures. There are millions around the world who suffer from it. This makes it one of the top brain conditions. Drugs are key in handling epilepsy. But, changes to the lifestyle may also improve the quality of life of the patient. 

In this article,  we will delve into the various lifestyle changes that may help an epileptic patient. Changes like diet, exercise, proper sleep, and having a strong support network will be discussed. We will look into how therapeutic diets may help control seizures. We will also give guidance on how to live a balanced and fulfilling life with this condition. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.  

Nutrition and Epilepsy Management 

A balanced diet has a key role in maintaining good health and well-being. This includes managing epilepsy. Making sure your body gets needed nutrients may help maintain stable energy levels. It is said to encourage good sleep patterns as well. Plus, it could possibly lessen the chance of seizures. 

Dietary Therapies for Epilepsy 

There are many dietary therapies made for epilepsy. These diets focus on changing the amount of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This helps to set neuronal activity. It might also improve seizure control. 

1. Ketogenic Diet 

The ketogenic diet (KD) is rich in fats, has enough protein, and is very low in carbohydrates. This diet has been used for many years to manage epilepsy. This is especially true with kids who do not respond well to drug therapy. The main goal of the KD is to create a state of ketosis. This is where the body uses ketone bodies (from fats) for energy instead of glucose (from carbohydrates). 

Here’s what the diet includes and how it may help. : 

• About 90% of calories from fat. 
• The remaining calories mainly from protein, with only a small amount of carbohydrates. 
• It may lead to a significant decrease in seizures in some patients, even those resistant to drugs. Studies which are trying to find out the mechanism by which this occurs are ongoing.  
• It is reported to have a long-term positive impact on the control of seizures, growth, and development. 

However, while following the diet the following things need to be kept in mind.  

• The diet requires strict adherence, as even small changes might affect ketosis and take away its proposed anticonvulsant effect. 
• It might cause side effects, such as constipation, kidney stones, and high cholesterol levels. 
• It may not be suitable for all patients. It should be started under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 
   

2. Modified Atkins Diet 

The modified Atkins diet (MAD) is a less strict version of the ketogenic diet that allows more carbohydrates. It does not limit protein or calorie intake. The diet is generally easier to maintain and is more appealing to teens and adults with epilepsy. 

Here’s what the diet includes and how it may help. : 

• Intake of high-fat and low-carbohydrate foods is similar to the KD, but with fewer rules. 
• There is no need to limit protein intake or overall calorie intake. 
• It is said to show good results in reducing the frequency of seizures. This is even in cases where ketogenic diets failed. 

However, while following the diet the following needs to be kept in mind.  

• To be effective, this diet still requires strict adherence. 
• Although it’s more flexible than the KD, it can still pose challenges when planning meals and being social. 
• Long-term  side effects are not yet fully understood. 
   

3. Low Glycaemic Index Diet 

The low glycaemic index diet (LGID) focuses on foods with a low glycaemic index. These foods don’t have a big impact on blood glucose levels. The LGID also aims to shift the body’s energy source. It wants to use ketone bodies instead of glucose much like the KD and MAD. 

Here’s what the diet includes and how it may help. : 

• Includes mostly low glycaemic index foods, such as meat, cheese, high-fiber vegetables.  
• Offers more carbohydrates than the KD or MAD. 
• Is easier and more flexible than other diets. There’s no need to measure food and portions like in the ketogenic and MAD diets. 

However, the following needs to be kept in mind.  

• Its effectiveness might be a bit less than the KD or MAD. 
• It needs careful monitoring of carbohydrate intake and controlling portion sizes to make sure not to consume them in excess. 
• Long-term success depends on constantly sticking to the given dietary guidance. 
   

Working with a Healthcare Provider to Find the Right Diet 

Epilepsy and its management are unique to each person. It is important to work with healthcare professionals like doctors, nutritionists, and dietitians. They can help devise a diet plan suitable for you. Regular meetings and check-ups with them can help find the most suitable diet. They can monitor progress and make changes as needed to ensure the best results. 

Food-Based Seizure Triggers 

Even though specific foods causing seizures are rare, some food elements like caffeine, alcohol, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) might increase seizure risk. It’s vital that people with epilepsy  detect potential triggers in their diet. They should plan strategies to avoid them. Reading food labels carefully and choosing whole foods and unprocessed foods whenever possible may help. 

Lifestyle Changes and Epilepsy Management 

Besides making changes to the diet, other lifestyle changes may significantly affect epilepsy. Keeping active, getting sound sleep, and managing stress may help promote good health. They could potentially drop the chance of seizures. 

1. Importance of Regular Physical Activity 

Regular and moderate exercise has a lot of benefits for people with epilepsy. Things physical activity may help with are as follows.  

• Better heart health 
• Boosts mood and relieves stress 
• Improves sleep quality 
• Helps maintain healthy weight 
   

It is key to check with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program. This is to make sure these activities are safe and apt for your specific requirements. 

2. Adequate Sleep and Stress Management 

Bad sleep and high stress levels can worsen seizures in those with epilepsy. Making quality sleep a priority and practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and counseling may provide substantial benefits to overall seizure management. 

3. Alcohol Consumption and Smoking 

Drinking alcohol and smoking may make it harder to control seizures. They might also interact negatively with antiepileptic drugs. Limiting or quitting alcohol and smoking is said to have a positive effect on seizure control and overall health. 

4. Activities to Avoid for Epilepsy Patients 

Some activities with high risk may not be recommended for people with epilepsy. This is due to the increased chance of injury during a seizure. These activities are to be avoided and they are listed below.  

• Swimming alone or without a close watch 
• Climbing or hiking without safety gear 
• Operating heavy machines 

 Adjusting to ensure safety is important and the following can be done to achieve it.   

• Choose safer exercises or sports, like walking, stationary cycling, or yoga. 
• Always wear safety gear like helmets when doing activities that might be risky.  
• Let friends, family, and coworkers know about your epilepsy. Teach them what to do during a seizure. 

Also Read: What Can Happen If Epilepsy Medicine Doses Are Missed: A Guide to Understanding the Risks

Social and Emotional Support for People with Epilepsy 

Building a strong support network is key for those living with epilepsy. Connect with others in the same position, seek professional help, and learn how to self-advocate for a happier life while managing this condition. 

• Building a Support Network 

A strong network of friends, family, coworkers, and healthcare professionals can give people with epilepsy a reliable support system during hard times. Networking groups, online forums, and attending events related to epilepsy can offer chances to meet others facing the same challenges. 

• Accessing Professional Help 

Working with healthcare professionals, therapists, and counselors can provide emotional support, guidance, and resources to help cope with epilepsy. They may help address specific issues and create personalized methods. This may greatly improve overall wellness. 

Also Read: Tips to Avoid Breakthrough Seizures: A Comprehensive Guide

Tips for Living a Normal Life with Epilepsy 

To live a normal life while managing epilepsy, it means to balance being independent, safe, and social. Some useful tips that you may try are as follows.  

• Letting your friends, family, and colleagues know about your epilepsy. This helps them understand and support you. 
• Stand up for your rights and adjustments as a person living with epilepsy. 
• Keep involved in social and fun activities when possible, but always make sure they are safe. 

Also Read: Importance of Diet for Epilepsy: A Closer Look at Research-Based Findings

Conclusion 

By adopting lifestyle changes and certain dietary therapies, one may greatly improve the management of epilepsy. When people with epilepsy work closely with healthcare professionals, it helps in creating personalized plans that promote better control of seizures and overall better quality of life. 

While there isn’t one guaranteed way to manage epilepsy, actions like regular exercise, good sleep, stress management, a supportive network, and exploring dietary therapies may pave the path to a healthier and more satisfied life. 

Also Read: Role of Stress & Sleep in Epilepsy Management: A Comprehensive Research-Based Guide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

References: 

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Managing Epilepsy Well Checklist [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/managing-epilepsy/checklist.htm 

2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Dietary Approaches to Epilepsy Treatment: Old and New Options on the Menu – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1176378 

3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Dietary and lifestyle behavior in adults with epilepsy needs improvement: a case-control study from northeastern Poland – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8243538 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.