Epilepsy Treatment May be Sweet Indeed

news you may not know

Mmmm...

2DG.

How do you take your coffee? If you have epilepsy, you may one day find yourself ordering a "Decaf Mocha Frappuccino with a double shot of 2DG." That's right, a double shot - you're looking for some extra seizure protection this morning, so you'll be especially sharp in that 10am meeting...

2DG? In your coffee?

Researchers have found that 2DG (2-deoxy-glucose) blocks the body's use of glucose, a naturally occurring sugar. That blockage of the use of sugar may be a key in inhibiting seizures. Scientists have long believed sugar excites the brain and sugar-free diets are commonly recommended as one means of seizure control. However, particularly in our sugar-drenched society, strict adherence to a sugar-free diet can be difficult. 2DG may hold the key.

By interfering with the body's ability to utilize its own glucose, 2DG, which is itself naturally sweet, establishes a medical middle ground. Patients are able to consume sugar but their bodies are unable to process it. The result may be a brain that is calm and a life that is seizure free.

Current testing is in early stages and doctors anticipate it will be at least five years before 2DG may be available at the local coffee shop. In the meantime, if you have epilepsy, consider the effects sugar may be having on your life - and, of course, your teeth.

To read more about the research, see the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.