Epilepsy /Seizure Disorders
The KD is a proven, effective therapy for epilepsy in children and adults (Klein et al., 2014; Li et al., 2013). In many cases, it is more effective than anti- epileptic drugs (AEDs) and is therefore routinely used as a front-line treatment for children with retractable (drug-resistant) epilepsy (Levy et al 2011). Although the mechanisms of KD therapy are largely unknown, achieving and sustaining therapeutic ketonemia 1 mM blood ketones) or ketonuria 40 mg/dL) is generally necessary for antiseizure efficacy. Despite its success, the dietary restrictions of the KD can be unpalatable for some patients and difficult for caregivers, a contributing factor for cessation of treatment (Klein et al., 2014; Levy et al., 2011). Exogenous ketogenic supple- mentation mimics the metabolic and physiologic effects of the KD, including enhancing mito