Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurrent seizures. Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause various symptoms, from brief periods of altered consciousness to convulsions and loss of consciousness. Epilepsy can develop at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults.

There is no cure for epilepsy, but nerve pain medication, anticonvulsant drugs, such as Epidolex (Cannabidiol), Aptiom (Eslicarbazepine acetate), Fycompa (Perampanel), Lyrica (Pregabalin), and Vimpat (lacosamide) can help treat partial-onset seizures.

While there are many potential triggers for epilepsy, diet is often one of the most overlooked. Here are specific foods that can trigger seizures in patients with epilepsy:

1. Caffeinated teas and coffee

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, and cocoa beans and has long been known to trigger seizures in patients with epilepsy. Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with medication, making it difficult to control seizures. Caffeine can also cause dehydration, which can lead to seizure activity. For these reasons, patients with epilepsy need to avoid tea and coffee that contain caffeine.

2. Chocolate

Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which has similar effects to caffeine. Like caffeine, theobromine can interfere with seizure medication and trigger seizures in patients with epilepsy. In addition, it is high in fat and sugar which can also contribute to seizure activity.

3.Candy and sweets

Candy and Sweets can trigger seizures by increasing the excitability of neurons. Second, they can interfere with medication by binding to the same receptors that the medication binds to. This can lead to the medication being less effective or even completely ineffective. They can also increase blood sugar levels, further contributing to seizure activity.

4. Soft drinks

These drinks contain caffeine and, as mentioned before, caffeine can trigger seizures or interfere with medication. In addition, the sugar in these drinks can also affect blood sugar levels, leading to increased seizure activity. Therefore, patients with epilepsy need to avoid drinks that contain caffeine or lots of sugar.

5. Garlic

It is a popular ingredient in many dishes, but it can be dangerous for people with epilepsy. Its strong smell can trigger seizures, and the compound allicin can interfere with seizure medication. Allicin is also a relaxant, making it difficult for someone with a seizure to stay still. In addition, allicin can also increase the risk of seizures by interacting with the brain’s neurotransmitters. This can lead to an imbalance in the brain that can trigger seizures.

While there is no cure for epilepsy, treatments available can help control seizures. Some people with epilepsy may also need to follow a special diet to reduce their seizure risk.