Living with epilepsy can be challenging, and it is essential to know about ways to help manage it in a better way. People suffering from this condition might look for effective ways to stay seizure-free; however, with conflicting information available on the internet, it can be difficult to know what can help ease the condition and what cannot. It has been found that a balanced diet that has the right amount of nutrients from various food groups can ensure that the brain and body function efficiently. Therefore, after consulting with a doctor, one can follow a diet plan as it can help control seizures and live with epilepsy.

How does diet affect epilepsy?

While no food has been found to trigger an epileptic seizure, a well-planned diet can reduce the risks of seizures by helping one maintain good health. A balanced diet can help provide one with the energy and important nutrients, better sleep, and better stamina for engaging in activities. By following a healthy diet, one can live better, be more positive, and develop a stronger focus, all of which can help control and manage the condition effectively.

Top nutrition tips for living well with epilepsy

• When the body metabolizes fats, it produces ketones. So, following a Ketogenic diet forces the body to utilize more fats for energy production instead of glucose or sugar through a diet that increases fat intake and lowers carbohydrate intake.

It is important to eat foods that steadily provide energy and keep one feeling satisfied for a longer time. These usually offer more fiber than foods that help release energy very quickly. For instance, whole-grains; brown rice; oats and oat-based cereals; non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, greens, tomatoes, and onions; and fruits such as pears, berries, and apples should be made a part of the diet. Food that causes sudden energy spurts and then slumps must be avoided, such as non-wholegrain cereals cakes and biscuits, chips and fruit juices, dates, watermelon, white bread, processed foods, and over-ripe fruits.

Epilepsy is experienced differently by everyone. It has been observed that preservatives and colors, artificial sweeteners, and MSG or monosodium glutamate can trigger seizures. Foods that are labeled “low-fat” typically have these and, therefore, must be avoided.

While pomegranate juice and grapefruit juice have not been found to trigger epileptic seizures directly, they can aggravate the side-effects of epilepsy medications. So, it has been recommended that one should avoid these when they are taking medicines to treat epilepsy.

Caffeine, that is present in colas, tea, and coffee, has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and can increase the occurrence of seizures in some people.

It is important to consult a doctor before making any changes to the diet as they will help one manage the condition well.