What is the primary metabolic effect of the ketogenic diet in epilepsy management?

• A. Induces ketosis and shifts metabolism to fat utilization, potentially reducing seizure frequency.
• B. Increases carbohydrate intake.
• C. Destroys ketone bodies.
• D. Always requires surgery.

Answer: (A)

Ketosis is the hallmark metabolic shift produced by the ketogenic diet. When carbohydrate intake is very low, the body switches from using glucose to burning fat for energy. The liver converts fatty acids into ketone bodies, which rise in the blood and become the brain’s primary fuel. This change in brain energy metabolism and the accompanying effects on neurotransmitter balance can help stabilize neuronal activity and reduce seizure frequency in many people with epilepsy. The idea isn’t to increase carbs, nor to destroy ketone bodies, and surgery isn’t a required part of this therapy.