Ketosis is a natural metabolic state in which the body begins to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This process occurs when carbohydrate intake is severely restricted, leaving the body without enough glucose (sugar) to use as a primary energy source. Instead, the liver breaks down fat and produces ketones, which are then used as an energy source.
How does the process of ketosis work?
- Limiting carbohydrates : When you follow a keto diet, you usually limit your carbohydrate intake to less than 50 grams per day. This ensures that your body quickly uses the available glucose.
- Glycogen stores depleted : The body stores glucose in the form of glycogen in the liver and muscles. Once carbohydrate intake remains low, these glycogen stores become depleted within a few days.
- Fat Burning : When glycogen stores run low, the body switches to burning fats for energy. The liver begins to convert fatty acids into ketones.
- Production of ketones : The liver produces three types of ketones: acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetone. These ketones are used by the body as an alternative fuel for energy, especially by the brain, which normally uses glucose.
When do you enter ketosis?
The time it takes to enter ketosis varies per person and depends on several factors, such as:
- Diet : How strictly you limit carbohydrates. On a strict keto diet, the body can enter ketosis within 2 to 4 days.
- Exercise : Regular exercise can help deplete glycogen stores faster, speeding up the process.
- Initial state : If you already have a low carbohydrate intake or fast regularly, you can enter ketosis more quickly.
How do you know you are in ketosis?
When you are in ketosis, you may experience a number of symptoms:
- Bad breath : As your liver breaks down stored fat, it makes chemicals called ketones. Acetone is one of these ketones and it does not smell very nice.
- Increased energy and mental clarity : Many people report an increase in energy and improved mental focus.
- Reduced hunger : Ketones can have a satiating effect, leading to less hunger.
- Rapid weight loss : Especially in the first weeks, mainly due to loss of water weight.
Benefits of ketosis
- Weight loss : Ketosis promotes efficient fat burning.
- Improved blood sugar control : May help manage blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.
- Mental clarity and focus : Many people report improved cognitive functions.
- Increased energy : Ketones are an efficient source of energy for the body.
Ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. Achieving ketosis requires a strict diet with a very low carbohydrate intake, which leads to the production of ketones by the liver. Ketosis can be checked by means of urine, blood or breath analysis. Ketosis offers several health benefits, including weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and increased mental clarity and energy.
Starting the Keto Diet
Have you become enthusiastic and do you want to experience ketosis yourself? Then get started with the new Killerbody Keto Diet . The Keto Diet consists of a diet plan with 2 phases. You will receive a nutrition plan including meals and recipes for both phases. In addition to the Keto Diet, you will also receive all Killerbody products you need for preparing recipes and/or meals, including our Protein Shake , Slimming Powder and Energy Booster .