Epilepsy is an important medical problem with approximately 50 million patients globally. No more than 70% of epileptic patients will achieve seizure control after antiepileptic drugs, and several epileptic syndromes, including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), are predisposed to more frequent pharmacoresistance. Ketogenic dietary therapies (KDTs) are a form of non-pharmacological treatments used in attempts to provide seizure control for LGS patients who experience pharmacoresistance. Our review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and practicalities concerning the use of KDTs in LGS. In general, KDTs are diets rich in fat and low in carbohydrates that put the organism into the state of ketosis. A classic ketogenic diet (cKD) is the best-evaluated KDT, while alternative KDTs, such as the medium-chain triglyceride diet (MCT), modified Atkins diet (MAD), and low glycemic index treatment (LGIT) present several advantages due to their better tolerability and easier administration. The literature reports regarding LGS suggest that KDTs can provide ≥50% seizure reduction and seizure-free status in a considerable percentage of the patients. The most commonly reported adverse effects are constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting, while severe adverse effects such as nephrolithiasis or osteopenia are rarely reported. The literature review suggests that KDTs can be applied safely and are effective in LGS treatment.
15 February 2024 in Journal of Education, Health and Sport
This review explores the intricate relationship between dietary factors and lung cancer risk based on a thorough examination of relevant literature and articles. The findings highlight a significant association between specific dietary elements and lung cancer risk. Increased intake of fiber, fruit, and vitamin C is linked to a notable 9% reduction in risk, particularly for squamous cell carcinoma. Notably, vegetables exhibit a risk reduction for current smokers, while offal, red meat, and processed meat may elevate risk, especially in heavy smokers. Contradictory evidence surrounds dairy products, with fermented dairy inversely correlated. Beer and cider consumption are associated with an increased risk, primarily among current smokers. In contrast, avocados demonstrate a promising link to decreased lung cancer risk. Vitamin K intake shows an inverse relationship, particularly in males and ever smokers. High retinol intake may elevate risk, potentially modifying the effects of tobacco exposure. Nuts consumption is significantly linked to reduced lung cancer risk and overall cancer mortality. Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) demonstrate a noteworthy risk reduction for lung cancer, with supplementation improving overall survival in patients with the disease. Palmitic acid, a component of saturated fatty acids, is implicated in promoting lung metastasis, emphasizing the intricate nature of dietary influences on cancer. In summary, while lung cancer is primarily associated with tobacco smoking, this review underscores the multifaceted interplay between diet and lung cancer risk. Further research is crucial to unravel underlying mechanisms and provide definitive evidence on the impact of specific dietary factors, emphasizing the importance of continued exploration in this complex field.