When our body goes into a state of ketosis, it's not a bad thing. In fact, it's something many of us choose to bring on ourselves to lose weight. The word ‘ketosis' might sound like some sort of disease. It isn't. It is a normal metabolic process in which our body, when short on glucose, instead starts burning stored fats for needed energy. It is a condition that people can initiate by starting a ketogenic diet that is low on carbohydrates and seeks to burn unwanted fat. The aim of the ketogenic diet, as medicalnewstoday.com puts it, is to burn the unwanted fat by forcing the body to rely on fat for energy in place of carbs. Our primary source of fuel for the body is glucose, which in large part comes from the breakdown of carbohydrates that we consume. The two primary sources of glucose derived from dietary carbs are sugar (dietary sources include fruits and milk) and starch (bread, pasta, etc.). When our body is low on glucose, it can figure that out for itself. That's when it will pursue an alternate means to fulfill its need for energy. Thus begins the process of breaking down stored-up fat to retrieve the glucose from triglycerides. This in turn produces acids known as ketones, whose existence is evidence that the breaking down of fat is now taking place. The resultant buildup of ketones in the bloodstream is eventually eliminated through our urine. A diet low in carbs is not the only factor linked to ketosis. A deficiency of insulin, such as with Type 1 diabetes patients, accompanied by a rise in blood-glucose can also result in ketosis, as ketones don't depend on insulin to get into our body's cells to fuel them, per diabetes.co.uk. Another cause of ketosis, and one less relevant to diabetics, is an excessive consumption of alcohol.
Ketosis Signs and Symptoms
Per healthline.com, here are some indications that your body is in the metabolic state of ketosis, whether by design via diet or without your otherwise knowing it:- You have bad breath, caused by raised ketone levels. A fruity smell often is reported, so keep some sugar-free gum (and a toothbrush and toothpaste) handy.
- Raised level of ketones in your blood, for which there are devices to measure this. It typically is accompanied by a reduction in blood-sugar levels.
- Decreased appetite. Exact reasons for this are unknown, but it could be because increased consumption of protein and vegetables is believed to suppress our appetites.
- A boost in focus and energy. Actually, the first week or so of a ketogenic diet can have the opposite effect, leaving us tired and with brain fog. The body will eventually adapt and likely produce enhanced energy and focus over time.
- Digestive issues, also related to a transition period as your body adapts to your new diet. Side effects early on can include constipation and diarrhea. That's why a low-carb diet should be accompanied by the consumption of plenty of fiber.
- Insomnia. Yet one more change early on that affects ketogenic dieters, likewise tied in to the drastic reduction in carbohydrate intake.