Ketone Bodies: Definition, Testing, and Significance | FAQs and Resources

Ketone bodies are a group of three chemicals produced in the liver when the body metabolizes fatty acids for energy in the absence of sufficient glucose. The three ketone bodies are acetone, acetoacetate, and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). Measuring ketone levels in the blood, urine, or breath can help diagnose and manage certain health conditions, including diabetes and obesity. Ketone bodies can also be used as a fuel source for the brain and other organs during times of glucose scarcity, such as fasting or a low-carbohydrate diet. However, high levels of ketone bodies can be toxic and lead to a condition called ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Also Known as	Serum Ketones, Plasma Ketones, Beta-hydroxybutyrate, Ketone Bodies, Beta-hydroxybutyric Acid , Acetoacetate, Acetoacetic Acid, Acetone, Ketone Body, Blood Ketone
Test Purpose	The purpose of a blood ketone test is to measure the level of ketones in the blood, which can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as diabetes, nutritional ketosis, and ketoacidosis.
Test Preparations	No Special Preparation Required
Test Components	Keytone Body
Specimen	2 ML (0.5 ML Min.) Serum From 1 SST. Ship Refrigerated Or Frozen.
Stability Room	6 Hrs
Stability Refrigerated	12 Hrs
Stability Frozen	4 Weeks
Method	Enzymatic
Download Report	Not Available

Definition of Ketone bodies:

Ketone bodies are a group of three chemicals produced in the liver when the body metabolizes fatty acids for energy in the absence of sufficient glucose. The three ketone bodies are acetone, acetoacetate, and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB).

Importance of measuring Ketone bodies:

Here are three important reasons why measuring blood ketones is important:

1. Assessing metabolic state: Measuring blood ketones can provide information about the body’s metabolic state, particularly during times of low carbohydrate availability. This can help individuals determine whether they are in a state of nutritional ketosis or if their ketone levels are too high, which can be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis.
2. Monitoring diabetes: For individuals with diabetes, measuring blood ketones can help monitor for the development of diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when ketone levels become too high due to a lack of insulin.
3. Tracking dietary changes: Measuring blood ketones can be useful for individuals following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet to track their progress and ensure that they are maintaining a state of ketosis.

Production of Blood Ketones:

Here are some key points about the production of blood ketones:

• Blood ketones are produced in the liver when the body is in a state of low glucose availability, such as during fasting, a low-carbohydrate diet, or in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes.
• The liver breaks down fatty acids into ketone bodies, including beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), acetoacetate (AcAc), and acetone.
• Ketones are released into the bloodstream and transported to other tissues in the body, such as the brain and muscles, where they can be used as an alternative source of energy to glucose.
• Ketone production in the liver is regulated by the hormones insulin and glucagon. When insulin levels are low and glucagon levels are high, such as during fasting or a low-carbohydrate diet, the liver starts to break down stored fat into ketone bodies to provide energy to the body.
• Elevated blood ketones can occur in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes, which can lead to a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.

Regulation of Blood Ketones:

Here are some key points about the regulation of blood ketones:

• Blood ketones are regulated by a complex interplay of hormones and metabolic processes.
• Factors that can affect blood ketone levels include fasting, exercise, low-carbohydrate diets, diabetes, and alcohol consumption.
• The normal range for blood ketones is typically between 0.5 and 3.0 mmol/L, although this can vary depending on the individual and their metabolic state.
• High blood ketone levels, also known as ketosis, can be a normal physiological response to fasting or a low-carbohydrate diet, but can also occur in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or in those with certain medical conditions.
• Extremely high blood ketone levels, typically above 10 mmol/L, can be dangerous and can lead to a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Measuring blood ketones can provide important information about the body’s metabolic state, particularly for individuals with diabetes who may be at risk for developing diabetic ketoacidosis.

Signs and symptoms:

Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of high blood ketone levels or ketoacidosis:

• Increased thirst and dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath and rapid breathing
• Weakness or fatigue
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Fruity or sweet-smelling breath
• High blood glucose levels (in individuals with diabetes)

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so a healthcare professional should be consulted for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated, high blood ketone levels can lead to severe complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening.

Why get tested:

Here are some reasons why a healthcare professional may recommend getting tested for blood ketones:

• To monitor nutritional ketosis: Individuals following a ketogenic diet may want to measure their blood ketones to ensure they are in a state of nutritional ketosis, which is necessary for the diet’s metabolic benefits.
• To manage diabetes: People with diabetes who are at risk for diabetic ketoacidosis may need to measure their blood ketones to monitor their ketone levels and adjust their treatment accordingly.
• To diagnose ketoacidosis: Blood ketone testing may be used to diagnose ketoacidosis in individuals with diabetes who are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion.
• To monitor treatment for ketoacidosis: Individuals with ketoacidosis may need to have their blood ketones measured regularly to monitor the effectiveness of their treatment and ensure that their ketone levels are returning to normal.
• To optimize athletic performance: Some athletes may use blood ketone measurements to optimize their training and performance by manipulating their body’s metabolic state.

When to get tested:

Here are some situations where a healthcare professional may recommend getting tested for blood ketones:

• If you have diabetes and are experiencing symptoms of ketoacidosis such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion.
• If you are following a ketogenic diet and want to monitor your blood ketone levels to ensure you are in a state of nutritional ketosis.
• If you are an athlete who is interested in manipulating your body’s metabolic state to optimize your training and performance.
• If you have a medical condition that affects your metabolism, such as an inborn error of metabolism.
• If you have unexplained symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, or weakness, and your healthcare provider suspects that high blood ketone levels may be a possible cause.

Blood Ketone Testing:

The primary test used to detect blood ketones is a blood ketone test, which measures the concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in the blood. This test is typically done using a handheld device called a ketone meter or ketone monitor, which uses a small sample of blood obtained from the fingertip.

There are also urine tests that can detect the presence of ketones, including acetoacetate and acetone, but these tests are not as accurate as blood ketone testing. Urine ketone tests are often used as a screening tool for individuals with diabetes, but they do not provide a precise measurement of blood ketone levels and can be affected by factors such as hydration status and the time of day.

In some cases, healthcare providers may also order blood tests to check for other markers of metabolic function, such as blood glucose levels, electrolyte levels, and kidney function. These tests can help provide a more complete picture of the individual’s overall health status and can be used to guide treatment decisions.

Ketone bodies Normal Values:

Blood Ketone Level	Normal Range	Source
Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB)	0.5 – 3.0 mmol/L	Mayo Clinic
BHB (for individuals with uncontrolled diabetes)	Up to 3.0 mmol/L	Mayo Clinic
BHB (for individuals with type 1 diabetes)	0.6 – 1.5 mmol/L	American Diabetes Association (when sick or high blood sugar levels)
BHB (for individuals with type 1 diabetes)	0.6 – 1.0 mmol/L )	American Diabetes Association (when not sick and normal blood sugar levels

Nutritional Ketosis:

Here are some key points about nutritional ketosis:

1. Nutritional ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body produces and utilizes ketones for energy, typically in response to a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet.
2. In nutritional ketosis, the body shifts from primarily using glucose as its main fuel source to using fat as its primary fuel source.
3. The liver converts stored fat into molecules called ketone bodies, which are then used by the body for energy.
4. Nutritional ketosis is achieved by reducing carbohydrate intake to a level that forces the body to rely on fat as a fuel source, typically below 50 grams per day.
5. Nutritional ketosis is distinct from diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes.
6. Nutritional ketosis may have potential health benefits for certain individuals, such as weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced inflammation.
7. However, nutritional ketosis may not be appropriate for everyone, and individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to their diet.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis:

Here are some key points about Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA):

1. Diabetic Ketoacidosis is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when the body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones.
2. DKA occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to properly regulate blood sugar levels.
3. In response to the lack of insulin, the body breaks down fat for energy, leading to the production of ketones.
4. The buildup of ketones in the blood can lead to a state of metabolic acidosis, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
5. Symptoms of DKA may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness and fatigue, and confusion.
6. DKA is more commonly seen in individuals with type 1 diabetes, but can also occur in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
7. Treatment for DKA typically involves intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement, insulin therapy, and close monitoring of blood sugar levels and acid-base balance.
8. DKA is a medical emergency and individuals experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Increase Ketones in :

Here are some factors that can increase ketones in the body:

1. Low-carbohydrate diets: A low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet can increase ketone production in the body, leading to nutritional ketosis.
2. Fasting: Extended periods of fasting can also increase ketone production in the body.
3. Exercise: Intense exercise, particularly endurance exercise, can increase ketone production as the body uses stored fat for energy.
4. Ketogenic supplements: Exogenous ketone supplements, such as ketone esters or ketone salts, can also increase ketone levels in the body.
5. Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as type 1 diabetes and alcoholism, can increase ketone production in the body, leading to diabetic ketoacidosis and alcoholic ketoacidosis, respectively.
6. Certain medications: Some medications, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, can increase ketone production in the body and lead to a potentially dangerous condition called euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis.

Laboratory Diagnosis with Other Tests:

Here is a table of some laboratory test values that may be elevated when blood ketones are high:

Test	Potential Elevation in Ketosis
Blood glucose	May be elevated in diabetic ketoacidosis due to insulin deficiency and increased gluconeogenesis.
Serum electrolytes	May be imbalanced in diabetic ketoacidosis due to excessive ketone production and osmotic diuresis.
Serum beta-hydroxybutyrate	Elevated in nutritional ketosis, diabetic ketoacidosis, and other conditions causing ketosis.
Serum lactate dehydrogenase	May be elevated in diabetic ketoacidosis due to tissue damage and decreased perfusion.
Serum lipase	May be elevated in diabetic ketoacidosis and other conditions causing pancreatitis.
C-reactive protein	May be elevated in diabetic ketoacidosis and other ketosis-related conditions due to inflammation.
Urine ketones	May be present in individuals with ketosis or diabetes.

It is important to note that the elevation of these laboratory test values alone is not diagnostic of ketosis or related conditions and should be interpreted in the context of the patient’s clinical presentation and other laboratory results. A healthcare professional should be consulted for accurate diagnosis and management.

Risk Factors:

Here is a list of some common risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing high blood ketone levels:

1. Diabetes or prediabetes
2. Insulin resistance
3. Low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets (such as ketogenic diets)
4. Fasting or prolonged exercise
5. Alcoholism
6. Starvation or malnutrition
7. Hyperthyroidism
8. Certain medications, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors
9. Infections or illnesses that cause a high fever
10. Trauma or injury
11. Surgery or other medical procedures.

Preventions:

Here are some preventive measures that may help reduce the risk of developing high blood ketone levels:

1. Manage diabetes or prediabetes with appropriate medical care, including medication and lifestyle changes.
2. Avoid following low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets without medical supervision and guidance.
3. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially during periods of increased physical activity or in hot weather.
4. Monitor blood glucose levels regularly, especially when fasting or engaging in prolonged exercise.
5. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
6. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet with adequate carbohydrates to meet the body’s energy needs.
7. Take medication as prescribed and monitor for any potential side effects.
8. Practice good hygiene to prevent infections and illnesses.
9. Use proper safety precautions to prevent trauma or injury.
10. Follow post-operative care instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.

Treatment:

Here are some common treatments for high blood ketone levels:

1. Insulin therapy for diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemia
2. Fluid and electrolyte replacement, especially for dehydration or electrolyte imbalances
3. Correction of any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the high ketone levels
4. Nutritional therapy, such as adjusting the diet to include more carbohydrates or reducing the intake of fat
5. Medication adjustments or discontinuation of certain drugs that may be contributing to high ketone levels
6. Treatment of any infections or illnesses that may be causing the high ketone levels
7. Monitoring of blood ketone levels and adjusting treatment as necessary.

FAQs:

What are blood ketones?

Blood ketones are molecules produced by the liver from fatty acids when the body is in a state of ketosis.

Why are blood ketones important?

Blood ketones provide a measure of the body’s state of ketosis and can be used to monitor and adjust ketogenic diets, as well as diagnose and manage conditions such as diabetes and ketoacidosis.

How are blood ketones produced?

Blood ketones are produced by the liver from fatty acids in a process called ketogenesis.

What regulates blood ketone levels?

Blood ketone levels are regulated by a complex interplay of hormones and metabolic pathways, including insulin, glucagon, and ketone body utilization.

What are the signs and symptoms of high blood ketones?

Signs and symptoms of high blood ketones may include fruity breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and difficulty breathing.

When should I get my blood ketones tested?

Blood ketone testing may be indicated in individuals following a ketogenic diet, individuals with diabetes, and individuals experiencing symptoms of ketoacidosis.

How do I test my blood ketones?

Blood ketone testing can be done using a handheld meter and test strips that measure the concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate in the blood.

What is nutritional ketosis?

Nutritional ketosis is a metabolic state characterized by elevated blood ketones resulting from a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet.

What is diabetic ketoacidosis?

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of diabetes characterized by elevated blood glucose and ketones, dehydration, and acidosis.

Can exercise affect blood ketone levels?

Exercise can increase blood ketone levels by increasing fatty acid oxidation and promoting ketogenesis.

Can alcohol affect blood ketone levels?

Alcohol consumption can interfere with ketone production and may lower blood ketone levels.

Can certain medications affect blood ketone levels?

Certain medications, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, can increase blood ketone levels by promoting ketone body production and reducing glucose utilization.

Can high blood ketones be harmful?

High blood ketones can be harmful if they lead to ketoacidosis, a condition characterized by severe metabolic acidosis and dehydration.

How can I lower my blood ketone levels?

Blood ketone levels can be lowered by increasing carbohydrate intake, reducing fat intake, and increasing physical activity.

What should I do if my blood ketone levels are high?

If blood ketone levels are high, individuals should seek medical attention, especially if they are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, blood ketones are an important measure of the body’s state of ketosis, which can be useful in managing a variety of conditions such as diabetes, ketoacidosis, and weight loss. Blood ketone testing can be done using a handheld meter and test strips, and the results can help individuals adjust their diet and lifestyle accordingly. Nutritional ketosis can be achieved through a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet, while diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of diabetes that requires prompt medical attention. It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of high blood ketones and to seek medical attention if necessary.

References:

1. American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021. Diabetes Care. 2021 Jan;44(Suppl 1):S1-S232. doi: 10.2337/dc21-S000.
2. Arora S, Henderson SO, Long T, Menchine M. Diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care testing for diabetic ketoacidosis at emergency-department triage: {beta}-hydroxybutyrate versus the urine dipstick. Diabetes Care. 2011 Apr;34(4):852-4. doi: 10.2337/dc10-1571.
3. Bequette BW. A critical assessment of algorithms and challenges in the development of a closed-loop artificial pancreas. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2005 Aug;7(4):28-47. doi: 10.1089/dia.2005.7.28.
4. Brown E, Rajeev SP, Cuthbertson DJ. Nutritional ketosis in the prevention and treatment of metabolic disease. Clin Sci (Lond). 2018 Mar 16;132(8):1913-1928. doi: 10.1042/CS20180306.
5. Frayn KN. Calculation of substrate oxidation rates in vivo from gaseous exchange. J Appl Physiol (1985). 1983 May;55(1 Pt 1):628-34. doi: 10.1152/jappl.1983.55.1.628.
6. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Diabetic ketoacidosis. Accessed March 15, 2023.
7. Nørgaard K, Lauszus FF. Diabetic ketoacidosis in adults: diagnosis, pathophysiology and management. Diabetologia. 2021 Jul;64(7):1457-1464. doi: 10.1007/s00125-021-05452-3.
8. Qiu H, Novotny L, Diabetic Ketoacidosis. [Updated 2021 Aug 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507908/
9. Seok H, Lee WY. The role of ketogenic diets in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Jan 19;12:2042018820984677. doi: 10.1177/2042018820984677.
10. Veech RL. The therapeutic implications of ketone bodies: the effects of ketone bodies in pathological conditions: ketosis, ketogenic diet, redox states, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial metabolism. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2004 Mar;70(3):309-19. doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2003.09.007.
11. Westman EC, Yancy WS Jr, Mavropoulos JC, Marquart M, McDuffie JR. The effect of a low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diet versus a low-glycemic index diet on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2008 Dec 19;5:36. doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-5-36.

---

Possible References Used

---