Epilepsy is a common chronic health condition, affecting around 50 million people worldwide. Epilepsy is a seizure disorder, its symptoms include fainting, muscle spasms, and loss of consciousness. While epilepsy can have several causes, it is often diagnosed in childhood. With appropriate treatment, most people with epilepsy can remain independent and have a happy and full life. A healthy diet is also part of epilepsy management. While no food will prevent seizures, including these foods can help improve overall brain health:
1. Eggs
In the last few decades, the health benefits of eggs have been debated. With today’s new understanding of nutrition, eggs are decidedly healthy, especially for people with epilepsy, as they are an inexpensive source of protein and healthy fats. Protein helps the body build new tissue and repair damaged tissue while healthy fats are important for helping the body absorb vitamins.
2. Apples
While an apple a day may not actually keep the doctor away, it’s still an excellent addition to a diet focused on good brain health. Apples are high in fiber, which provides a steady release of energy after eating and helps avoid energy peaks and crashes. Because there appears to be a possible link between physical activity and reduced seizures in people with epilepsy, a steady source of energy can be a big help. Apple juice is not an effective substitute for actually eating an apple, however, since the juice doesn’t contain the fiber necessary to achieve this effect.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries have long been considered a “super food,” mostly due to chemical compounds called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins, which also give the blueberry its distinctive color, have been shown to improve the function of the neurons, which send messages throughout the brain—critical for a brain with epilepsy. Finding other foods with high levels of anthocyanins is easy as they are recognizable by their vivid red and purple colors. Options to try include cherries, black plums, red cabbage, eggplants, purple cauliflower, black beans, and black rice.
4. Red peppers
Crunchy sweet red bell peppers have been shown in studies to have anticonvulsant properties. While research is still unclear on exactly how these properties work, adding them to a diet could be beneficial for people with epilepsy. People who are taking nerve pain medication or anticonvulsant drugs for their epilepsy, including Epidolex cannabidiol, Aptiom eslicarbazepine acetate, Vimpat lacosamide, Fycompa perampanel, Lyrica pregabalin, and Midazolam injection, should seek their doctor’s advice to ensure there will be no adverse reaction.
5. Brazil nuts
Brazil nuts are high in selenium, a nutrient known to improve heart health and prevent cancer. Research also suggests that selenium may help protect against epileptic seizures, by preventing damage to the neurons. Brazil nuts are also a source of lean protein and healthy fats. Vegetarians, especially, should take extra steps to add plant-based protein to their diets, and nuts (in moderation) can help.
