Introduced in the 1920s, the diet mimics the metabolic state of fasting, which doctors found significantly reduced seizures in children who did not respond to medication.

Because the brain cannot directly use fat for energy, ketones serve as a crucial alternative fuel source when glucose from carbohydrates is depleted.

As carbohydrate restriction lowers insulin levels, the kidneys quickly excrete excess sodium and fluid, causing dehydration symptoms like headaches and fatigue.