Chapter 3 Ketogenic Diet Uses

Chapter 3 Ketogenic Diet Uses The body becomes more of a fat-burner than a carbohydrate-dependent machine.
Research shows that a diet high in carbohydrates is linked to the development of several disorders such as insulin resistance and diabetes. Carbohydrate are easily absorbed and stored. Digestion starts in the mouth. As soon as the food is chewed, amylase (enzymes that digest carbohydrates) in the saliva are already acting on the carbohydrates. In the stomach, carbohydrates are further broken down and are immediately absorbed once it enters the small in- testines. In the blood, carbohydrates immediately increase the blood sugar levels.
This stimulates the immediate release of insulin. High blood sugar levels triggers release of high levels of insulin. This hormone causes the sugars to be stored im- …show more content…
The tissues can develop resistance to insulin when it is constantly exposed to it in high levels. Obesity oc- curs, as the body tends to rapidly store the carbohydrates. Diabetes and cardiovascular disease can result from this cycle. A ketogenic diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates has been found to play a role in reducing and improving certain medical conditions. It is indicated as part of the treatment plan. Epilepsy For some reason, epileptic seizures are reduced when in a ketogenic diet. This is actually the main reason why the ketogenic diet has been formulated. Pediatric epileptic cases are the most responsive to this type of diet. Some children even have seizure elimination after a few years of adhering to the ketogenic diet. Adult epilepsy has limited response. Children may be required to fast for a few days before the initiation of the keto- genic diet plan as treatment for