What you need to know about ketones

Are you someone who has diabetes? Or does someone in your family or friend have diabetes? Then you've probably heard the word 'ketones'. But what are these ketones? Why are they so important for someone with diabetes? Let's talk about this today in a simple way that you can understand. Knowing this correctly can help save your life.

Simply put, what are ketones?

Ketones are a type of acid produced by our liver. Everyone produces small amounts of ketones in their bodies, whether they have diabetes or not.

So how do these things happen? Our bodies use sugar, or glucose, as their primary source of energy. A hormone called insulin is essential for converting this glucose into energy. However, when there is not enough insulin in the body, the body is unable to use glucose for energy. The body then looks for another source of energy. That is the fat stored in our bodies.

When the body starts burning fat for energy, these ketones are produced as a byproduct. We call this process ketosis . This is usually not a problem for someone without diabetes. However, in someone with diabetes, especially if insulin control is lost, these ketone levels can rise uncontrollably. If the level of ketones in the blood becomes dangerously high, it can lead to a very serious, even life-threatening emergency called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) .

Who should get a ketone test?

If you have diabetes, it is very important to be aware of ketone testing.

• People with Type 1 Diabetes: These are at the highest risk. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, blood sugar levels and ketone levels can easily rise.
• People with Type 2 Diabetes: They can also have elevated ketone levels, but it is not as common as in type 1 diabetes.
• Heavy drinkers: People who drink heavily every day and do not eat or drink properly can develop a condition called alcoholic ketoacidosis . This is also an emergency that requires immediate treatment.

When should you test for ketones?

If you have diabetes, your doctor will often advise you to check your ketone levels at the following times:

• If your blood sugar level is higher than 250 mg/dL for two days in a row.
• If you get sick with a fever, cold, or any injury.
• If you are planning to exercise and your blood sugar level is above 250 mg/dL at that time.
• If you are unable to receive the prescribed insulin injection .
• If you are pregnant (especially if you have gestational diabetes).
• If you have had surgery .
• If you can't eat anything.
• If you use an insulin pump and it stops working.

What are the symptoms of elevated ketone levels?

If you experience the following symptoms, it is wise to get a ketone test done immediately. These may be early signs of DKA.

How do you check ketone levels?

There are two main ways to test your ketone levels, both of which you can do at home.

1. Urine Test

This is the most common and cheapest method. You can buy test strips for this at a pharmacy.

• Take some urine into a clean cup.
• Dip the test strip in it.
• Shake the strip slightly and wait the time specified in the instructions until it changes color.
• Compare the color of the strip with the color chart you received to find out your ketone level.

2. Blood Test

This method is more accurate than urine testing. Some blood glucose meters also have the ability to test for ketones.

• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
• Insert the ketone test strip into the meter.
• Prick your finger and place a drop of blood on the test strip.
• Read the result displayed on the meter.

A blood test gives you the level of ketones in your blood at that moment, so it's more accurate. But the test strips are quite expensive. Ask your doctor which method is best for you.

What do my test results mean?

It is very important to understand your results.

How to reduce ketone levels?

If your ketone levels are slightly elevated, there are a few things you can do. But remember, the most important thing is to follow the plan your doctor has given you.

• Drink plenty of water: This helps flush ketones out of the body.
• Check blood sugar frequently: Check every 3-4 hours.
• Don't exercise: If both your blood sugar and ketones are high, exercising can make the condition worse.
• Seek advice from your doctor: Ask your doctor about the amount of insulin needed and the foods you should eat to treat high ketone levels.

Ketones, Diabetes, DKA, Diabetic Ketoacidosis, Blood Sugar, Insulin, Ketone Testing