Each child's care will be tailored to him or her. This can cause temporary symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, sweating, and sleepiness. If this occurs, a small amount of orange juice may be administered before fasting can proceed. Glucose levels are checked frequently during the fasting phase. Carbohydrate-free multivitamins with iron and calcium are recommended because the ketogenic diet is deficient in iron, calcium, B vitamins, and micronutrients.
Weight gain is usually minimal despite the high fat content of the diet.
The rate of growth may be slowed slightly, but will resume a normal rate when the diet is discontinued. Children may also experience constipation as a result of the fluid restriction. It is not known whether or not the diet affects the development of atherosclerosis. The dietician in the hospital will meet several times with care givers, teaching them about the diet and its food selection. The diet will be calculated according to the individual child's weight and caloric needs.