Ketogenic Diet
Ketogenic Diet for Pediatric Epilepsy Treatment at Children’s Hospital of Michigan
At Children’s Hospital of Michigan, we offer specialized ketogenic dietary therapies to manage various pediatric epilepsy syndromes, including Glucose Transporter Protein 1 (GLUT-1) Deficiency Syndrome, Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Deficiency, and Epilepsy with Myoclonic Atonic Seizures (EMAtS/Doose Syndrome). For these and other drug-resistant epilepsy cases, the ketogenic diet is a proven first-line treatment option.
Our expert Keto Team, composed of Pediatric Neurologists, Epileptologists, Nurse Practitioners, and a Registered Dietitian, works collaboratively to create personalized ketogenic treatment plans tailored to each child's specific needs and preferences. Every diet type is carefully selected based on your child’s diagnosis and quality of life, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Comprehensive Support for Families
Children placed on a ketogenic diet receive ongoing support and care at each stage. Our team monitors blood work, growth patterns, and side effects at regular follow-up visits to ensure safe and effective treatment. Our goal is to help children achieve significant seizure reduction and improve their quality of life.
Diet Options Tailored to Your Child
We offer several ketogenic diet options to suit your child’s medical needs:
[ For those with enteral feeding needs, medically modified formulas are also available.]
- Classic Ketogenic Diet: The most researched and strictest form of the diet, it’s been used for over 100 years to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders. This high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet has shown remarkable results, with one-third of patients experiencing >90% seizure reduction.
- Modified Atkins Diet (MAD): A less restrictive option that focuses on limiting carbohydrates while encouraging fat intake. This diet offers a more flexible approach while still supporting seizure control.
- Low Glycemic Index Treatment (LGIT): Designed to limit high glycemic carbohydrates, LGIT promotes foods with a low glycemic index, helping to manage seizures while maintaining a balanced diet.
How to Get Started
If you’re considering a ketogenic diet for your child, start by speaking with your Neurologist or Epileptologist. From there, schedule an appointment with our registered dietitian, who will guide you through the options and help you choose the right path for your child.
Our program includes an initial follow-up after one month, with quarterly check-ins for the first year to ensure progress and address any concerns.
Help Control Your Child’s Seizures with the Ketogenic Diet
With over 20 years of experience in pediatric ketogenic therapies, Children’s Hospital of Michigan has helped children achieve better seizure control and improved neurological health. Reach out today to learn more about how our team can support your child’s journey toward better health.