So basically, in very nontechnical terms, the Ketogenic Diet is a diet that is a very high fat diet and no carbs. It is based on a ratio of 4:1. 4 fats to every 1 carb/protein. Our bodies work off of the sugars and glucose that come from carbs. The Ketogenic diet switches this and makes the brain think that it's not getting any sugars at all. And so it thinks the person is starving. Obviously, Cavan won't be starving. He will just be getting his sugars from all of that fat he will be ingesting. Somewhere in this whole my-body-is-starving process- seizures stop. They don't know how or why but they do for most kids.
It is a very complicated and risky diet in the beginning. He could become dehydrated. He could get too much acid in his blood. He could develop new or more seizures in the beginning. He will get sick (who wouldn't eating all of that fat!). That is why it is so important we be admitted into CHOP for the week so Cavan can be monitored. He will receive IV fluids. He may receive medications to help alleviate the acid in his blood. No one should try this at home! 😉
We will begin the diet with breakfast on Tuesday morning. I will show you what it all entails once I learn the process.
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