question - Epilepsy Message Board

syndyhall · 06-11-2004, 11:36 AM

I had a brain tumor removed 6 weeks ago and also have seizures. I really n eed to lose weight and my dr wants me to as well. Can I do the atkins diet or is it bad for your brain at al. I am 5'7 and weight 250.

Paprikash · 06-11-2004, 05:23 PM

The Atkins diet is very safe for people with seizures. It is based on the ketogenic diet, which is a diet used to prevent seizures. I used to do Atkins and ran it by by neuro, who said it was perfectly safe and in fact recommended for people with epilepsy. Going on Atkins MAY help your seizures.

If you have questions why not ask your neurologist about its safety.

kayakmom · 06-12-2004, 08:26 AM

Yes, it can be very helpful with seizures, but you SHOULD be monitored by a doctor while on that diet. THere are other complications that need to be watched.

Hope the surgery has helped you and that you can loose the weight! Some AED(seizure meds) have a problem of adding weight, some actually cause weight loss...

Pantoufle · 06-16-2004, 10:53 AM

The Atkins diet is perfectly safe. I have never heard of these "complications" that you refer to? What do you mean specifically?

kayakmom · 06-16-2004, 12:54 PM

It is a very high fat diet. There are studies that show an increase in heart issues and cholestorol for some individuals on the diet. IT is also a diet devoid of a number of nutrients. Since fruit and vegetables are limited, it is usually required that vitamins be taken to counter act the defiency...

It can be a safe way, when monitored by a physician.