⚖️ How Obesity Impacts Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures, but did you know that weight and epilepsy are closely linked? The relationship actually goes both ways:
People with epilepsy have a higher risk of obesity.
Conversely, obesity can increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
How Epilepsy Affects Weight
Seizures can disrupt hormones like ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin, which regulate:
Appetite
Fullness
Metabolism
Some anti-epileptic medications may also interfere with hormones, leading to rapid weight gain.
How Obesity Affects the Brain and Epilepsy
Excess weight can trigger changes in brain structure and function, especially in multiple localized regions.
Visceral fat accumulation can increase inflammation, impacting the nervous system.
These changes may accelerate seizure onset and worsen the progression of epilepsy.
What You Can Do
If your child has epilepsy and weight concerns:
Visit a doctor to identify the underlying cause of weight gain and get a personalized treatment plan.
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy foods.
Encourage regular physical activity – it helps control weight, reduce stress, and lower risks of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular issues.
Regular exercise not only aids weight management but may also help reduce seizure risk and improve overall neurological health.
Doctor: Hoanglam - TA Hospital
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