According to a new study conducted by a research team at Royal Holloway, University of London, an MCT ketogenic diet could help to ensure more effective treatment of people with epilepsy.

Foods that have high levels of fat, moderate in proteins and low in carbohydrates are included as part of a ketogenic diet.

For people eating this type of diet, the body burns off fat supplies as the main source of energy rather than carbohydrates, which are usually the main energy source among people with an average diet.

The difference means that the body generates ketones, which are molecules made in the liver, which previous research studies have highlighted have a link with improving seizure control for those with epilepsy.

Professor Robin Williams and colleagues from the Centre for Biomedical Sciences at Royal Holloway have found that decanoic acid, which features in an MCT ketogenic diet, can help to reduce the intensity of symptoms associated with epilepsy.

The researchers say the decanoic acid blocked seizures for epilepsy patients.

Professor Matthew Walker, co-author of the study, said: “This discovery will enable us to develop improved formulations that are now likely to significantly improve the treatment of epilepsy.

“It will offer a whole new approach to the management of epilepsies in children and adults.”

More information about the study is available in the journal Brain.