Ketosis
Your backup fuel system. Ketosis is a natural metabolic state where the body shifts from burning glucose to burning fat and ketones for fuel. When carbs are low and insulin drops, the liver converts fatty acids into ketone bodies— an efficient, clean-burning fuel that can power the brain and body.
The Three Ketone Bodies
Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB)
Most abundant (78%). Used for energy. What blood meters measure. Can cross blood-brain barrier.
Acetoacetate (AcAc)
Second most common (20%). What urine strips detect. Converts to BHB or acetone.
Acetone
Smallest amount (2%). Exhaled through breath. Causes "keto breath." What breath meters detect.
How to Enter Ketosis
Potential Benefits
Fat Loss
Low insulin allows fat burning. Appetite often naturally decreases. Stable energy.
Mental Clarity
Ketones are efficient brain fuel. Many report improved focus and reduced brain fog.
Stable Energy
No blood sugar crashes. Steady fuel from body fat. No 3pm slump.
Reduced Inflammation
BHB has anti-inflammatory effects. May help inflammatory conditions.
Seizure Control
Originally developed for epilepsy. Still used therapeutically. Very effective for some.
Metabolic Health
Improves insulin sensitivity. Can help reverse type 2 diabetes markers.
Ketosis vs Ketoacidosis
Nutritional Ketosis
0.5-3 mmol/L. Safe, natural state. Controlled by feedback loops. What happens with fasting or keto diet.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
>10 mmol/L. Dangerous. Occurs in Type 1 diabetes when no insulin. Medical emergency. Different mechanism.