Ketosis is likely to occur among those with diabetes. Once the body breaks down fat, a ketone body is produced which is a process called ketosis. It is important to note that insulin is required by the cells to utilize glucose in the blood, but ketones do not need insulin. The ketones that were not used for energy move via the kidneys and eliminated via urine.
Ketosis simply means that the body is releasing ketone bodies. The body is burning fat instead of glucose. Take note that ketosis is not necessarily harmful to the health. If an individual does not have diabetes and maintains a healthy diet, it will not become an issue.
What is ketoacidosis
Even though ketosis is not dangerous, it is something to watch out for among those with diabetes. Remember that ketosis is a forerunner to ketoacidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis.
The condition is characterized by having both high glucose and high levels of ketones. This causes the blood to become more acidic. It is common among those with type 1 diabetes. Once the symptoms start, they rapidly escalate and includes:
- Excessive thirst
- Breath that smells fruity or like nail polish
- Frequent urination
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
If an individual has ketoacidosis, the blood tests will show high glucose and ketone levels. The urine tests also show elevated ketone levels. This is a life-threatening emergency and can lead to coma or death if not promptly treated.
Ketoacidosis is oftentimes one of the initial indications of diabetes. If an individual has diabetes, the level of ketones is high due to lack of insulin or not eating enough. An elevated level of ketone early in the morning indicates that the individual had an insulin reaction while sleeping.