Evaluation of the Modified Atkins Diet in Young Children With Refractory Epilepsy

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age: 9 months to 3 years. 2. Seizures persisting at least three per week for \> 1 month despite the appropriate use of at least 2 Anti-epileptic drugs. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Known or suspected inborn error of metabolism, as evidenced by: Clinical suspicion of metabolic disorder as evidenced by 2 or more of the following- a history of parental consanguinity, prior affected siblings, unexplained vomiting, intermittent worsening of symptoms, recurrent episodes of lethargy, altered sensorium, or ataxia, hepatosplenomegaly on examination And/ or 2 or more of the following biochemical abnormalities High blood ammonia (\>80mmol/L), High arterial lactate (\>2 mmol/L), metabolic acidosis (pH \<7.2), hypoglycaemia (blood sugar \<40 mg/dl), abnormal urinary aminoacidogram, presence of reducing sugars or ketones in urine, and positive results on urine neurometabolic screening tests. 2. Motivational or psychosocial issues in the family which would preclude compliance 3. Systemic illness- chronic hepatic, cardiac, renal or pulmonary disease 4. Severe acute malnutrition.