Ketogenic diets: Opportunities and limitations in practical application (LITERATURE REVIEW)

Abstract

During almost 100 years ketogenic diets (KD) were used for treatment of epilepsy and certain metabolic deficiencies (GLUT1 deficiency and Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDHD). It has been widely suggested that KD and their preparations might be used to treat obesity, cancer and to prevent neurodegenerative diseases (dementia, Alzheimer's, etc.), diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and even aging. The literature review provides evidence for KD efficiency in reduction of epileptic seizures in children and adults. However, the majority of research and the professional communities of dietologists, such as German Nutrition Society and German Cancer Soceity warn of adverse health effects of KD when used for other conditions. Additional studies are therefore required.