Why ketogenic diet?
For GLUT1 deficiency syndrome, ketogenic diet is used because ketone bodies can replace glucose as an energy source for the brain.
The brain needs continuous energy. Usually this energy comes from glucose. In GLUT1 deficiency syndrome, the transport of glucose into the brain is reduced, and the brain may get too little fuel.
Ketogenic diet changes the body's energy supply. When the body gets very little carbohydrate and sufficient fat, the liver produces ketone bodies. These can be used by the brain as an energy source instead of glucose.
Glucose from carbohydrates is the brain's usual fuel. In GLUT1 deficiency syndrome, transport is reduced.
When the body gets very little carbohydrate and sufficient fat, the liver produces ketone bodies the brain can use as energy.
Ketogenic treatment is not a weight loss diet
Ketogenic diet for GLUT1 is not the same as the popular "keto diet" used by people who want to lose weight. Therapeutic ketogenic diet is carefully calculated and individually tailored. Type of diet, amount of fat, protein and carbohydrate, and desired ratio must be determined in collaboration with healthcare professionals.