According to the Epilepsy Foundation, one in 26 people will develop the condition in their lifetime. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures. There are many different types of seizures with a wide range of causes and triggers. Some people living with the condition can experience seizure activity after eating certain foods. The following is a list of five foods that may trigger attacks and treatment options for those living with this chronic neurological condition:
1. Cookies and candy
Cookies and candy are two notorious common triggers for epileptic attacks. This is because they contain high levels of sugar and simple carbohydrates, which can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. This can trigger attacks, especially if they have not eaten for a while.
2. Salty snack foods
Salty snacks are another common trigger. The salt in these foods can cause attacks by disrupting the electrical activity in the brain. This can be especially dangerous for people trying to control their attacks with medication. Talk to your doctor about what foods to avoid. You may need to limit or avoid salty snacks, sugary foods, artificial sweeteners, and other trigger foods.
3. Tea or coffee
Although it’s not entirely clear how tea and coffee may trigger attacks, some theories exist. One theory is that the caffeine in tea and coffee may interact with certain medications used to treat the condition, making them less effective. Another idea is that tea and coffee may contain chemicals that can trigger seizures. Whatever the mechanism, it is clear that tea and coffee can trigger attacks. If you suffer from the condition, it is important to be aware of this and to avoid or limit your intake of tea and coffee. Talk to your doctor about what is best for you.
4. White bread
There is a theory that white bread may trigger attacks in some people because the body breaks down bread into sugar very quickly, which can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. While there is no definitive proof that white bread can trigger attacks, it should be considered if you are susceptible to attacks.
5. Honey
Like most people, you probably think of honey as a healthy, natural sweetener. But did you know that it can also trigger attacks? This is because it contains a type of sugar called fructose, which can be metabolized differently by people with the condition. This can cause an increase in seizure activity. Treatment options for honey-induced attacks include avoiding honey altogether or taking it in small amounts and monitoring blood sugar levels closely.
6. High-sugar drinks
According to a study by researchers at the University of Leicester, the high sugar content in these drinks can trigger a seizure. The study looked at data from a group of people suffering from the condition and found that those who consumed more than four sugary drinks per day were more than twice as likely to have a seizure as those who consumed fewer than four drinks.
