Suffering from seizures, whether through epilepsy or another medical cause, can be debilitating and incredibly dangerous. They happen when there is an overload in neuron activity, leading to convulsions, collapse, and/or loss of consciousness. People who suffer from epilepsy have regular seizures, but occasional seizures can also happen as a result of certain chemicals, some foods, low blood sugar, dehydration, head injuries, stress, and more. So what are the 9 foods to avoid when suffering from seizures?
1. Gluten
The first of the 9 foods to avoid when suffering from seizures are foods with gluten. Gluten is a protein found in most breads, pastas, and cereals. Over the past few decades, there has been an increase in the number of reported allergies to gluten, as it is inflammatory. It can also cause seizures, which is recommended to cut out gluten for a few months to determine whether that has an effect.
2. Soy
Soy products should also be avoided, as soy or soybean is a type of legume and plant protein. Children are particularly at risk of being allergic to soy, in which case allergic reactions, including seizures, can develop. Soy products, including vegetable protein, should be removed from a child's diet. This includes soy derivatives, such as non-dairy products, energy bars, hot dogs, processed meats, and so on.
3. Processed Sugars
Processed sugars should be avoided, as they give the brain too much fuel, which can lead to a seizure. This has actually been scientifically proven and epilepsy societies the world over now tell people to cut back on sugars. Rather, patients should have a ketogenic diet, which is higher in fats and lower in sugars.
4. Dairy
Dairy products should also be avoided, which can be a problem since you should also avoid soy. However, a lot of people have mild to severe dairy allergies. Furthermore, dairy products are often contaminated with hormones and other chemicals, which can all affect the brain. Also, it is common for processed sugars to be added to dairy products. Cheeses seem to be a particular culprit, with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Swiss, cheddar, and Parmesan regularly leading to seizures.
5. MSG
MSG, which is a type of additive used for enhancing the flavor of food, as well as a preservative. Various studies have shown that there is a link between MSG and seizures, because it is made from glutamate, which is a neurotransmitter.
6. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners should also be avoided. Aspartame in particular has been linked to excitotoxic activity, which means nerves fire more messages than normal, which could lead to seizures. Other artificial sweeteners should also be avoided because they are full of chemicals and other possibly dangerous substances.
7. Carrageenan
Carrageenan, which is an additive, should also be avoided. It can cause inflammation, intestinal irritation, and blood sugar disturbances. This can all lead to seizures. This is usually found in nutritional shakes, particularly in soy drinks.
8. Ginkgo nut
Ginkgo nut is used extensively in Chinese traditional medicine. When consumed in large amounts, however, it can have a significant impact on brain neurons and lead to seizures.
9. High GI Fruits
The last one among the 9 foods to avoid when suffering from seizures are high GI fruits and vegetables, as these can have a disruptive effect on the blood sugar level.