Our body sources energy from four main substances: Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats, and Alcohol. The utilization of glucose in the body adjusts based on carbohydrate intake. Unlike carb consumption, increasing fat intake does not directly influence its fuel usage; rather, it is indirectly influenced by carbs and alcohol.

 

Hormones like insulin play a significant role in regulating fuel utilization. Insulin, in response to elevated blood glucose, facilitates glucose storage as glycogen in muscles or liver. The primary function of insulin is to maintain blood glucose levels within a narrow range, predominantly impacted by dietary carbohydrates.

 

Proteins have a modest effect on blood glucose, as certain amino acids can convert to glucose. Fatty acids and ketones can stimulate insulin release to a lesser extent than carbs and proteins. During periods of exercise or low carbohydrate intake, the body breaks down stored fuels, releasing free fatty acids and glycerol into the bloodstream.

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In conditions like type 1 diabetes, where insulin production is inadequate, maintaining normal blood glucose levels requires external insulin administration. Propelled by glucagon, the body resorts to breaking down stored fuels in the absence of glucose and insulin, leading to metabolic states like ketoacidosis and ketosis.

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Apart from insulin and glucagon, other hormones like Growth Hormone, Thyroid Hormones (T3 & T4), Cortisol, and Epinephrine play crucial roles in regulating fuel utilization and mobilization in the body. These hormones respond to various stimuli such as exercise, low blood glucose, and fasting.

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The liver, a metabolic powerhouse, holds a central role in processing nutrients from the digestive tract. The liver's glycogen levels dictate whether nutrients are stored or broken down for energy. When liver glycogen levels are high, the body is in a "Fed State," storing nutrients like glucose and fats. In contrast, a "Fasted State" occurs when liver glycogen is depleted, leading to the breakdown of stored glycogen and triglycerides for energy, initiating ketone body formation known as ketogenesis.

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The process of ketosis unfolds in two stages: Ketonemia involves ketone buildup in the bloodstream, while Ketonuria refers to the excretion of ketones in urine due to their accumulation in the kidneys. These processes reflect the body's metabolic shift towards utilizing fats and ketones for energy production.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the mechanisms and benefits of the ketogenic diet, exploring how this dietary approach can optimize health and well-being through the metabolic state of ketosis.