The Classic Ketogenic Diet (CKD) was designed for the treatment of epilepsy by Dr. Russell Wilder of the Mayo Clinic in 1923. As it is typically described in scientific literature, the dietary prescription of the classic diet follows either a 4:1 or 3:1 ratio of fat to protein and carbohydrate. In the gold standard 4:1 ratio, 90% of calories come from fat, 6% from protein, and only 4% from carbohydrate sources.
The CKD is an individually tailored, characteristically structured regimen that requires a gram scale to weigh single ingredients. Specific meal plans are created to ensure nutritional adequacy for appropriate growth and development. The ratio of the diet can be adjusted based on outcome; increased for a more therapeutic effect or liberalized for improved tolerance.
In general, the CKD is reserved for infants, small children, and those receiving enteral feeds due to its restrictive nature. Older children, adolescents, and adults tend to fare well on the Modified Atkins Diet (MAD) or the Low Glycemic Index Treatment (LGIT), as they provide more dietary flexibility and variety.
Think the Classic Ketogenic Diet is right for you? Talk to your doctor and Registered Dietitian for a comprehensive evaluation.