Ketosis and Ketoacidosis are often confused with each other, which is probably why some people think a ketogenic diet is unsafe.
Ketosis is a natural state of the body deemed beneficial for many while Ketoacidosis is a life-threatening condition.
What is Ketosis?
Ketosis is a safe and natural state of body which occurs when fewer carbs are available as an energy source. It is a metabolic state where the body uses fats in the form of ketone bodies for energy in absence of carbs as a fuel source.
When carbs are restricted the body compensates by using fatty acids which is known as ketogenesis. These fatty acids are then broken down to ketone bodies which are then used as a energy source, this is known as ketosis.
Nutritional Ketosis is a condition wherein a person restricts the Net Carbohydrates intake to 20-50 grams per day to enter a state of ketosis. It has been used since the 1900’s to manage epilepsy and is now used as a way for weight loss and Blood sugar management.
[ Also Read: Types of Ketogenic Diets ]
What is Ketoacidosis?
Ketoacidosis is a dangerous condition that results as a complication in people with type-1 diabetes. It is also known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
It results when there is excess buildup of ketones in the blood which causes it to become acidic.
When insulin is not properly administered to diabetics the body cannot use glucose properly and starts using body fats instead. Leading to excess ketones, which results into ketoacidosis.
In a nut shell
|
Ketosis |
Ketoacidosis |
|
Low levels of ketones in the blood |
Extreme high levels of ketones in blood |
|
Safe process occurs when well formulated ketogenic diet is followed |
Occurs in type 1 diabetics |
|
Normal function of body |
Life threatening as it makes the blood acidic |
Ketoacidosis is life-threatening but it can be treated by administering insulin first step is to properly identify it.
A blood ketone meter should be used to properly monitor ketone levels.
By ADOR Health - India's Best online Keto Shop