The goal of the ketogenic diet is to adapt the body to utilize fat as its primary fuel source instead of sugar. The body does this by first converting fat into what are called ketones that the cells can then burn as fuel. It is at this point that we need to ask, what exactly are ketones?

Ketones are considered as the most effective and efficient fuel for human physiology without increasing the production of damaging free readicals. Ketosis allows a person to experience nonfluctuating energy throughtout the day as well as enhances brain function.

Advantages of Ketones

The energy currency of the body i.e. Ketones, comes in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). The mitochondria within every cell in the body either metabolize glucose or ketones to form this important energy molecule. Based on what we understand of cellular energy metabolism, ketones are able to create much greater amounts of energy per molecule than glucose. This means when the body begins to convert fat into ketones, you actually have a much more stable and sustainable energy source.

This is part of the profound benefits of being in ketosis including, improved hormone balance, lowered inflammation and improved brain health. Likewise, many people report feeling much more stable when they go into ketosis. Feeling less hungry, gaining control over cravings, and often experiencing a much more stable emotional state.

How the body gets into Ketosis

The body will either burn sugar or fat for energy. Sugar is converted into glucose while fats are converted into ketones by the liver.  When blood sugar drops and glycogen stores are burned up, the body begins to convert fat into ketones for energy. As we find out more about the benefits of ketones, people are intentionally putting themselves into this state for therapeutic benefits as well as a heightened state of mental performance. There are several ways to promote an increase in ketone bodies. The general strategy is to supply the body with ample fats while depleting blood glucose to signal the metabolic shift towards fat-burning.

Conclusion

Ketones are the body’s alternative fuel source to sugar. Derived from fatty acids, they provide a much more long-lasting and stable production of energy. In addition to providing stable energy, ketones also do not promote the inflammatory rise and fall of insulin as does sugar. Modern dietary habits have altered our metabolism and made sugar our primary fuel source. By following a ketogenic style of eating, it is possible to reverse these metabolic defects and take advantage of the benefits that ketones have to offer for our brains and bodies!

Author: Dr. Anil Date, MD | Dr2bThin – A medically supervised weight loss program. In case of any queries please contact/write back to us at doctor@dr2bthin.com.