Ketone supplements
Oftentimes, I receive the question of whether this is a good idea, as it seems like an ideal hack, right? You take a few pills or a powder a few times a day, and voila, you’re in ketosis! The answer is no… This is not a good idea and not exactly how it works! In this article, I will explain why you should avoid doing this.
What Are Ketones
Let’s start with a brief explanation of what ketones are and what their purpose is.
In simple terms, ketones are a form of fuel for your body. Ketones are made from fats and provide your body with the necessary energy/fuel.
These ketones are produced when your liver converts fats into ketones. This process can only occur when you eat very few carbohydrates, which means your body cannot get enough energy from glucose (sugar/carbohydrates).
Unlike glucose, ketones do not require hormones (such as insulin) to be absorbed. Once you are in ketosis (running on fat as fuel), your body requires much less effort to make energy usable. This is also why people who follow a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle for an extended period experience increased energy levels and require less food to feel satisfied. Your body generates ketones from fats obtained from your diet as well as from body fat.
The Advantage of Ketones
When your body relies on ketones, it has a much cleaner source of fuel. Many studies have shown that people following a ketogenic lifestyle are at a lower risk of heart disease and that it has significant benefits for brain function. Interested in learning more about the numerous advantages of being in a state of ketosis? Click here.
Why Shouldn’t You Take Them as Supplements?
There are several reasons for this, and they become apparent when you think about it.
When your body receives ketones through supplements, it doesn’t need to produce them itself. Your body won’t bother making its own ketones from sources like your body fat. This could result in slower weight loss, a weight plateau, or even weight gain.
Your Body Produces Its Own Ketones
One significant advantage of a ketogenic diet is that your body becomes efficient at using both your body fat and dietary fats for fuel. Taking external ketones interferes with this process.
If you don’t take external ketones, your body can regulate how many ketones it produces effectively. However, if you take ketone supplements, your body gets mixed signals. This can lead to laziness in your body because it’s receiving enough ketones from external sources, and it doesn’t need to make more. Consequently, this can hinder the weight loss process, leading to a plateau or weight gain.
The Danger of Ketone Overdose
Taking external ketones can potentially lead to an overdose of ketones, causing ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is a life-threatening condition that occurs in people with diabetes who produce very little insulin.
Other Side Effects
There’s also a risk of side effects when taking external ketones. Potential side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, bloating, headaches, dizziness, and palpitations.
The Conclusion
Why spend (a lot of) money on a product that can potentially harm your body and hinder your goals when your body can naturally achieve the desired effect of ketones (and it’s free)!?
Exceptions
So, over-the-counter ketones are not a wise idea to consume without a medical reason. However, there are exceptions where taking ketones as a supplement can have a beneficial effect. These exceptions are typically under the guidance of a medical specialist for specific medical conditions. The ketones prescribed by doctors are generally not the same as the external ketones marketed with enticing promises as powders, pills, or drinks. For more information on this, it’s best to consult your medical provider.