What is a medical ketogenic diet?
A medical ketogenic diet is a precisely calculated diet that gives the body very little carbohydrate and a high intake of fat, so that the liver produces ketone bodies. The diet is used as treatment for GLUT1 deficiency syndrome, drug-resistant epilepsy and certain other conditions.
Not the same as popular keto
Medical ketogenic diet is fundamentally different from the popular keto diet many use for weight loss. Therapeutic ketogenic diet is precisely calculated down to the gram of fat, protein and carbohydrate, and the ratio is medically determined. It is not a lifestyle or a choice – it is part of the treatment.
Individually tailored
No two people have the same diet. The type of ketogenic diet (classic, MCT, modified Atkins, LGIT), ratio, amount of calories and distribution of macronutrients are tailored to each patient based on age, weight, activity, diagnosis and medication use. This is always planned by a specialist team.
Requires follow-up over time
The diet is usually started inpatient or with close outpatient follow-up. Blood values, growth, seizure control and any medications are monitored regularly. Adjustments are made only by treating healthcare professionals.