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Ketone Bodies

There are three ketone bodies:

 

Acetoacetate (AcAc)

Betahydroxybutyrate (BHB)

Acetoacetate

 

Ketones serve a number of functions in the body:

 

They can replace glucose as a fat derived fuel for the brain that can derive 75% of it's total energy requirements from ketones

 

Ketones decrease production of glucose in the liver. 

Ketosis

Ketosis is a metabolic state in which ketones and free fatty acids take over as the body's main fuel source, replacing glucose.

By transitioning to fat and ketones as fuel, less protein is transformed into glucose, thus preserving protein. However, a significant portion of dietary protein gets converted into glucose, triggering insulin release, an inhibitor of ketone production. Excess protein intake may hinder achieving ketosis. Protein also stimulates glucagon release, which supports ketosis.

 

It's crucial to calculate the optimal protein level based on individual weight and body type to prevent excessive protein conversion to glucose.

Both carbohydrates and alcohol impede ketone production. Carbohydrates elevate insulin levels and reduce glucagon, hindering ketone formation. After a few weeks of carbohydrate restriction, glucose requirements decrease, necessitating further carbohydrate restriction for sustained ketosis. Diets

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