Epilepsy

Epilepsy (also known as seizures) is a condition that results from excessive electrical activity in the brain and nervous system. In a healthy brain, the transmission of electrical impulses between cells is controlled by regulatory mechanisms. However, in cases of epilepsy, situations occur where a large number of brain cells are activated simultaneously. Such electrical activity, known as an epileptic seizure, manifests in various ways, most commonly as a vacant stare, loss of consciousness, or convulsions.

The causes of this condition are often unknown, but sometimes such seizures can be preceded by:

• head injury,
• inflammation of the brain,
• cerebrovascular accident,
• brain tumor.

Genetics can also play a significant role. It has been found that a seizure in people with epilepsy can be triggered by low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) or low levels of certain nutrients (B complex, magnesium, choline).

In people without epilepsy, a seizure can be triggered by, for example:

• lack of sleep,
• excessive alcohol consumption,
• stress.

Impact of Diet on Epilepsy

It appears that certain nutrients in the diet can correct electrical activity in the brain. In practice, this leads to situations where the affected individual addresses the situation by taking selected nutritional supplements containing preferred substances in standardized amounts and higher biological activity instead of modifying their diet. However, this situation can be a double-edged sword. Patients taking antiepileptics should not discontinue treatment or reduce dosages without medical advice. Concurrently, they should be aware that no natural remedies in this case can be a substitute for prescribed medication. The function of supplements is primarily to replenish certain substances whose deficiency can contribute to seizure onset, or their increased intake may help manage individual seizures.

During supportive treatment for epilepsy, vitamins B complex, which participate in neurotransmitter formation, are most frequently recommended. The most important of the entire group are folic acid and vitamin B6, but for improved effect, it is preferable to take the entire B complex, as these vitamins work best together.

To strengthen good nerve and brain function, it is advisable to monitor dietary intake of calcium and magnesium.

One of the theories about the onset of epilepsy mentions that a seizure is triggered by damage to the fatty membranes of nerve cells. Based on this, it is recommended to regularly take:

- Vitamin E.
Its antioxidant properties can suppress chemical changes leading to such damage. Its natural forms are always more advantageous.

- Lecithin.
It improves the utilization of vitamin E in the body and simultaneously contains substances that stabilize brain activity.

In general, people affected by epilepsy should avoid:
- Consumption of alcohol, which reduces the effectiveness of antiepileptic medications,
- Increased physical exertion (fatigue can increase susceptibility to seizures).

It is often presented that during this condition, patients should avoid the use of omega-3 fatty acids. However, there are exceptions that should unequivocally be resolved with the attending physician (due to possible contraindications with medications being used and simultaneously the ability of omega-3 acids to support brain activity). Similarly, it is advisable to avoid preparations containing ginkgo biloba.