What is the ketogenic diet?
What is it like? The typical "classical" ketogenic diet, called the "long-chain triglyceride diet," provides 3 to 4 grams of fat for every 1 gram of carbohydrate and protein. That is about 90% of calories from fat. Usually when the classic ketogenic diet is prescribed, the total calories are matched to the number of calories the person needs. For example, if a child is eating a 1500 calorie regular diet, it would be changed to a 1500 calorie ketogenic diet. For very young children only, the diet may be prescribed based on weight, for example 75 to 100 calories for each kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight. If it sounds complicated, it is! That’s why people need a dietician’s help when using this diet. A ketogenic diet "ratio" is the ratio of fat to carbohydrate and protein grams combined. A 4:1 ratio is more strict than a 3:1 ratio and is typically used for most children. A 3:1 ratio is typically used for infants, adolescents, and children who require higher amounts of protein or carbohydrate for some other reason. The kinds of foods that provide fat for the ketogenic diet are butter, heavy whipping cream, mayonnaise, and oils (e.g., canola or olive). Because the amount of carbohydrate and protein in the diet have to be restricted, it is very important to prepare meals carefully. No other sources of carbohydrates can be eaten. The ketogenic diet is supervised by a dietician who monitors the child's nutrition and can teach parents and the child what can and cannot be eaten, a neurologist who monitors medications and overall benefits.
I am Deepthi Shetty, volunteering for epilepsy Campaign, not employed by Ioncure