Ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body uses ketone bodies as the primary source of energy, rather than glucose.
This state naturally occurs when the carbohydrate intake is reduced and is a key aspect of the keto diet.
On a keto diet, daily carbohydrate intake is limited to 20-50 grams, forcing the body to switch to using fat as its primary fuel source. Fat is broken down into fatty acids and glycerol, which are then converted into ketone bodies in the liver.
How Ketosis Occurs
The process of entering ketosis looks like this:
Reduction in blood glucose levels prompts the liver to convert fats into ketone bodies.
Ketone bodies are transported through the blood to various organs.
Organs start using ketone bodies as energy.
The onset of ketosis may be accompanied by some side effects, such as fatigue, headache, constipation, or “keto flu.” These symptoms are usually temporary and subside as the body adapts to the new dietary regimen.
It is important to note that ketosis should not be confused with ketoacidosis – a dangerous condition that occurs in people with diabetes.
Benefits of Ketosis
In addition to weight loss, ketosis can bring other health benefits:
Improved cognitive function.
Stabilization of blood sugar levels.
Increase in energy levels and endurance.
Reduction of inflammatory processes in the body.
Ketosis can also be beneficial in the treatment of certain neurological disorders, such as epilepsy.
How to Know If You’re in Ketosis
There are various ways to check for the presence of ketosis:
Measuring ketone levels in the blood using a glucometer.
