Epilepsy can be defined as a collection or spectrum of brain disorders characterized by the recurrence of some form of epileptic seizures. Epileptic seizures result from a disturbance in normal neuronal activity in the brain, which may be due to abnormal brain wiring, neurotransmitter imbalances, direct trauma to brain tissue, ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, one or more brain tumors, microbial infection of the central nervous system, porphyria (dysfunctional production of heme), or genetic predispositions (like mutations in genes relating to the excitability of neurons, the transmission of neural impulses across synapses, or the development of neuronal networks) [1] [2].
The manner in which epileptic seizures present themselves depends upon the area of the brain affected, and these seizures can be grossly classified as being either convulsive or non-convulsive (with multiple further classifications). And some seizures are only triggered by certain stimuli, like flashing lights or loud noises [3]. Weakness, fatigue, headache, confusion, nausea, or some form of abnormal behavior are symptoms commonly experienced during the 'postictal state' immediately after a seizure is had [4]. It's worth mentioning that low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalances, and high blood urea are capable of causing acute seizures, but these factors are not typically included in the etiology of epilepsy. MRI, PET, and CT scans are often used in the diagnosis of epilepsy, commonly with the addition of blood and/or cerebrospinal fluid analyses. Both celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity have been identified as possible progenitors for the development of epilepsy, and a gluten-free diet has been shown to be very effective for some epileptics [5] [6]. Furthermore, it has been reported that several autoantibodies are epileptogenic, thus the role of autoimmunity in the pathogenesis of epilepsy should be considered [7] [8]. Because proinflammatory Th17 cells are modulated by symbiotic gut bacteria, the onset of dysbiosis and subsequent intestinal hyperpermeability may underlie the inception of epilepsy [9] [10]. Relatedly, aspartame and monosodium glutamate should be removed from the diet in those with epilepsy as both can induce seizures [11] [12]. Supplementation with vitamin D3 has also been shown to significantly decrease seizure frequency, suggesting that vitamin D deficiency may be a predisposing factor in epilepsy [13]. Similar results have been demonstrated with vitamin E supplementation [14]. Deficiencies in vitamin B6, selenium, magnesium, and zinc have also been seen to increase seizure susceptibility [15] [16] [17] [18]. Next, seizures can be generated through exposure to insect repellants and insecticides, various organic solvents (which can be found in paint thinners, nail polish remover, perfumes, colognes, laundry detergents, and dry cleaning fluid), various medications, and metals such as mercury, aluminum, lead, and tungsten [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24]. Now looking at potential therapeutics, much evidence suggests that coconut oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and a relatively low-carbohydrate diet can be quite helpful for epileptics [25] [26] [27] [28] [29]. Perhaps the most well-known agent used in the natural treatment of epilepsy is cannabidiol or CBD oil, and an irrefutable mountain of research supports its efficacy [30] [31] [32] [33]. Even though epilepsy's etiology can be complex, its resolution (and yes it can be resolved) often lies in the restoration of the GI microbiota and the healing of an overly permeable gut wall, coupled with the appropriate detoxification and regeneration of brain tissue. References:
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AuthorDenton Coleman is an Exercise Physiologist and Medical Researcher. Archives
October 2023
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