HOW DOES KETOSIS WORK?

How your body generates energy—and how it uses that energy—is a direct result of the foods you eat, how your body processes those foods, and how your health is impacted, as a result. Ketosis is a metabolic state where the body is forced to consume existing body fat for fuel because it’s being starved of glucose, which is the normal source of fuel on a high-carbohydrate diet.

HOW YOUR BODY CREATES FUEL ON A HIGH-CARB DIET

On a standard western diet a large amount of carbohydrates are consumed, which the body then utilizes as a source of fuel for energy. The digestive system breaks down these carbohydrates and turns them into glucose molecules, which then go into the bloodstream and on to the organs and muscles where they are used as energy.

Once consumed, carbohydrates are metabolized by the body very quickly, providing quick burning fuel and a short-term burst of energy. But because this type of energy is short-lived, it only provides energy and satiety for a short amount of time, and thus the body becomes starved for more fuel in a shorter period of time. This is why we commonly feel hungrier sooner on a high-carb diet, and is also why our energy stores are depleted faster (commonly referred to as low blood sugar or a sugar crash).

High-carb diets can also elevate blood sugar levels, which can cause the pancreas to produce more insulin to counter the excess glucose. These increases in insulin can eventually cause the body’s cells to become resistant to insulin, and thus elevate the individual risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

1 A high-carbohydrate food is consumed.

2 The pancreas generates insulin, which allows the glucose—or blood sugar—to be utilized for energy.

3 Small, unused quantities of glucose are converted to glycogen and stored in the muscles and liver for later use.

4 The remaining glucose is used by the body for energy. Any excess glucose that is not burned for energy is then converted into stored body fat.

HOW YOUR BODY CREATES FUEL ON A KETO DIET

On a ketogenic diet there isn’t enough glucose for the body to use as energy, so it will then burn fat stores to produce an alternate form of energy, which the liver then breaks down to make energy. During this process, ketones are formed as a byproduct and are what the body eventually uses for energy. Because dietary fats are metabolized by the body at a slower rate than carbs, you will feel satiated for longer periods of time while enjoying longer lasting energy. Once ketosis is achieved, eventually you will experience increased energy levels increased mental clarity, better sleep, and improved congitive function. (Note that when your body first enters ketosis, you may experience some temporary adverse effects including bad breath, odd-smelling urine, and fatigue. Often called “keto flu,” the unpleasant symptoms of this condition will subside as your body adapts to the changes it’s experiencing.)

1 A high-fat, low-carb food is consumed.

2 Due to the absence of sugars in the consumed food, the body burns stored body fat to create energy.

3 As body fat is broken down, the liver produces ketones, which are then sent back into the body though the bloodstream.

4 Ketones are utilized by the body for energy. Excess ketones are expelled through the kidneys and lungs.

Ketoacidosis and ketosis—know the difference

Although they sound similar, ketosis and ketoacidosis—also known as diabetic ketoacidosis— are not the same. Ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of type 1 diabetes caused by excessively high levels of ketones in the liver and elevated blood sugar levels. It can occur in people with type 2 diabetes or alcoholism, and can occur as a result of inadequate insulin levels in a person with diabetes, or as a result of an improper diet. It can also occur during periods of extreme starvation. A healthy, low-carb diet with properly managed ketones does not cause ketoacidosis. Ketosis is not harmful and is just a sign of the presence of an elevated level of ketones in the blood and urine. Although ketosis does produce ketones, it does not cause high enough levels of ketones to cause ketoacidosis.

Signs and symptoms of ketoacidosis

  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme thirst
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lethargy

Note: Prior to making any significant changes to your diet, it’s recommended that you consult with a physician to have a complete physical check-up, have your blood sugar tested, and be screened for any other health issues. If you experience any symptoms of ketoacidosis, you should stop the diet immediately and see a doctor to get tested. In severe cases of ketoacidosis, you should seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

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