EC Nutrition

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, adequate-protein, and very low-carbohydrate diet that stimulates the creation of ketones by mimicking the metabolism of the fasting state. A high level of blood ketone caused by a KD induces the state of ketosis, which has several physiological and therapeutic advantages. The KD first gained popularity as an epilepsy treatment in the 1920s and 1930s. It has rapidly attracted research interest in the last 20 years due to mounting evidence of the KD’s possible therapeutic potential for other diseases besides epilepsy, including obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, and malignancies.

The KD alters multiple cellular signaling cascades, receptors, and biomarker levels in various medical situations. KD therapy differs from the typical Western diet in that it focuses on nutritional supplements, electrolytes, and hydration in addition to the diet. If the KD is followed closely, significant dietary changes can positively affect the dieting individual. However, several treatable shortand long-term adverse effects are linked to the KD. It may be challenging to follow the KD long-term if some of the most enjoyable meals are not allowed.

Numerous physicians are considering including KD programs in the therapeutic regimen in light of the importance of lifestyle modification in managing diseases. However, before this can be advised, doctors must ensure its efficacy and safety, and further human research is necessary. Numerous economic opportunities will soon arise as a result of the potential medical benefits of the KD. These safeguards and limitations can therefore be used to develop distinctive and personalized interventional procedures replicating the effects of a KD or as potential drug development targets.

Keywords: Epilepsy Treatment; High-Fat; Low-Carbohydrate Diet; Elevated Ketone Level; Neurodegenerative Disease; Obesity

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