The efficacy of low glycemic index diet on seizure frequency in pediatric patients with epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Despite extensive research examining the effect of a low glycemic index (LGI) diet on the frequency of seizures in patients with epilepsy, the findings are inconclusive. Hence, we performed a systematic review and meta -analysis in order to clarify the potential effect of a low glycemic index (LGI) diet on the frequency of seizures in children. Methods: A systematic review and meta -analysis written in accordance with the PRISMA checklist was realized using a comprehensive systematic search in four electronic databases until October 2023 without time or language restrictions. A random effects model was employed to combine the data. The main outcomes were analyzed using weight mean difference (WMD) and 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI). In total, 13 studies met the eligible criteria and were included. Results: The publications included in this study were published between 2005 and 2021. The duration of the interventions in the studies included in this analysis ranged from 6 to 58 weeks. Our findings indicated that the pooled efficacy rate for < 50 %, >= 50 %, > 90 % seizure reduction in patients with epilepsy receiving a low glycemic index diet was 39 % (95 % CI: 26, 52), 34 % (95 % CI: 23, 45), and 19 % (95 % CI: 13, 25), respectively. It seems that the efficacy of this ketogenic diet in reducing seizures is greater during a shorter intervention period than 12 weeks. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta -analysis suggests that the low glycemia index diet can be beneficial as a treatment for epilepsy in pediatric patients.