The Use of the Ketogenic Diet in Children: A Mini Review of Recent Evidence (2023-2024)

Giovanni Cacciaguerra¹*, Piero Pavone^1,2, Monica Palermo³, Maria Testai¹, Giulia Ferrera¹ and Raffaele Falsaperla^1
1Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Child and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
²National Council of Research, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), Unit of Catania, Catania, Italy
³Radiology Unit 1, Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University Hospital Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco
*Corresponding Author: Giovanni Cacciaguerra, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Child and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.

Published: December 10, 2024

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Abstract  

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate, moderate-protein diet that has been traditionally used to manage drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in children. In recent years, research has explored its potential applications in other neurological and metabolic conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), obesity, and type 2 diabetes. This review examines the most recent studies (2023-2024) on the efficacy, safety, and broader applications of KD in pediatric populations. We discuss the positive effects of KD on seizure control, behavior modulation in neurodevelopmental disorders, and metabolic improvements in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, we explore the risks associated with long-term KD use, such as nutritional deficiencies and growth retardation, and address the need for future research to establish long-term safety and efficacy in children.

Keywords: Ketogenic-diet; children; neurology

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