Other Ketogenic Diet Variations

The carbohydrates in foods are processed by the body differently. Some types of carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels more than other types do. Foods with carbohydrates that cause high blood sugar levels are called high glycemic foods. Foods that do not raise blood sugar much are called low glycemic foods. To identify which foods are either high-glycemic or low-glycemic foods, a glycemic index value has been given to most foods. The glycemic index value of a particular food indicates how much the blood sugar rises after eating that food. A list of foods and their glycemic index can be found at www.glycemicindex.com.

More than half of people on LGIT saw a drop in seizure frequency. It can also be successful at controlling seizures in those with drug-resistant epilepsy when the other diet therapies have failed. Studies have shown that there is a link between those achieving over 90% seizure control and lower blood glucose levels.₁

Only foods with a glycemic index of 50 or lower are allowed on LGIT. Typically, a meal or snack should include a balance of a fat source, a protein source, and a low-index carbohydrate food. Your ketogenic dietitian can help you determine which foods will be best for your LGIT diet.
Standard household measurements are used to measure foods on LGIT. This means it is not as strict as the classic medical ketogenic diet.

Age-appropriate daily multivitamin/mineral, calcium, and vitamin D supplements are recommended to help prevent any deficiencies from occurring. Your ketogenic dietitian will help to recommend appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements.

LGIT can be started at a clinic visit on an outpatient basis. The diet can be initiated all at once or by gradually substituting high-glycemic index foods for low-glycemic index foods over time. If the diet is not working to help manage seizures, the goals of the diet should be discussed with your healthcare team on how best to increase carbohydrate intake.

If the decision is made to stop LGIT, it is best to gradually wean off the diet. The amount of low-glycemic index foods is increased weekly until about 150 grams per a day is reached. Then high-glycemic index foods can be added back into the diet.

Compared to the classic keto diet, LGIT allows for an increased intake of carbohydrates and therefore provides a more flexible lifestyle. Food quantities are based on portion sizes instead of being weighed in grams. However, both diets are still composed of the same high-fat foods, such as cream, butter, and fatty meats. Individuals following a classic keto diet will receive a higher percentage of calories from fat than those following LGIT.