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Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a condition characterized by recurrent disturbances of the brain's electrical activity that manifest as sudden attacks of altered consciousness, involuntary and abnormal motor function and sensation, and alterations of the nervous system. Sometimes loss of consciousness can also occur.

The most common form of epilepsy is convulsive, meaning the attack starts with loss of consciousness and motor control, and then the individual has extreme jerking muscular movements.

There are four types of epilepsy:

  • grand mal epilepsy
    characterized by major episodes associated with loss of consciousness
  • petit mal epilepsy
    characterized by milder episodes, usually without loss of consciousness
  • psychomotor epilepsy
    characterized by different types of abnormal movements
  • autonomic epilepsy
    which is associated with flushing, whiteness of skin, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, abdominal symptoms, and sweating.
The cause of epilepsy is unknown.

What To Consider

Nutrient deficiencies, thyroid disorders, and stress can all contribute to epileptic seizures and must be screened for and addressed as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. Proper bowel movements two to three times a day are also important. If necessary, consider a bowel cleanse to restore healthy bowel function.

What To Do When Someone Is Having A Seizure
Remain calm and move sharp objects away from the affected individual. Keep him or her from putting anything in the mouth, and loosen his or her clothing. If possible, put the person on the floor or bed and stay at the individual's side until the episode runs its course.

Caution: If the individual's seizure does not stop within 5-10 minutes, seek immediate medical assistance. At the same time, be sure not to over-drug the patient, as medical drugs can actually trigger epilepsy due to their potential side effects.

Self-Care Tips

Diet
Individuals affected by epilepsy should eat a low-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, and eliminate fried foods, salt, sugar, meat, milk, and alcohol. For long-term care, they should follow a hypoglycemic (low sugar) diet, being sure to avoid artificial sweeteners, excessive refined carbohydrates, and caffeine. For epilepsy accompanied by sluggish bowels or constipation, also ensure that the diet is rich with fibrous foods.

Nutritional Supplementation
The following nutrients can help minimize symptoms of epilepsy: L-taurine and L-tyrosine amino acids (500 mg three times daily) along with an amino acid blend (two times daily); vitamin B complex and vitamins B3 (niacin), B5, B6 and B12; calcium; choline (start with 4 g daily and increase to 10-12 g within three months); dimethyl glycine (100 mg two times daily); magnesium; manganese; and zinc. Vitamin B complex injected intramuscularly may also be helpful. Note: Sometimes essential fatty acids aggravate symptoms, so consult with a nutritional expert to determine if this is the case.

Herbs
For petit mal epilepsy, take one teaspoon of skullcap tincture three times a day.

Hydrotherapy
Taking an Epsom salt bath twice weekly can help reduce symptoms.

Juice Therapy
Drink a combination of celery, carrot, and lettuce juice three times a day.

Caution

If you or someone you know experiences a seizure, seek the help of a qualified health professional immediately .

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