Ketosis

by Ruel | Nov 29, 2012 | Ketosis, Nutrition

“Why do we make ketones? For starters, it’s a vital evolutionary advantage. Our brain can only function with glucose and ketones. Since we can’t store more than about 24 hours worth of glucose, we would all die of hypoglycemia if ever forced to fast for more than 24 hours. Fortunately, our liver can take fat and select amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and turn them into ketones, first and foremost to feed our brains. Hence, our body’s ability to produce ketones is required for basic survival.” (Source: http://eatingacademy.com/nutrition/is-ketosis-dangerous)

Pre-condition:

5 months of a nutritional lifestyle that is essentially ‘no sugar and no grains’ from The Angriest Trainer. Includes high fat, some protein, and very few carbs from fruit and veggies. I run a few times a week. Lost around 18 lbs.

How to test for ketone levels?

Use of Reagent strips for urinalysis of Ketone (Acetoacetic Acid). Ketostix provides a fast, convenient way of testing urine for the presence and concentration of acetoacetic acid (Ketone).

Why test now?

I’ve tested ketones before about 3 years ago, when I spent time and had some success with the Atkin’s Diet Induction Phase. After I got lazy and fell back out of shape I ditched the strips.

Recently after listening to the Angriest Trainer (podcast episode 59), my interest in piss testing was re-sparked. On the podcast, host Vinnie Tortorich, co-host Anna Vocino, and special guest Andrea Anders got me curious and excited to know where my ketone levels were at. So here are some recent results preceded by what I consumed and did prior to each piss test.

Day 1 Test 1:

Had morning cup of coffee blend w/ coconut oil and grass-fed butter, glass of green smoothie, omega 3 soft gel and morning commute.

Result: Moderate-Large levels of ketones (40-80 mg/dL)

Day 1 Test 2:

After pre-run 1/4 cup black coffee and 1 hr easy lunch run.

Result: Moderate-Large (40-80 mg/dL)

Day 1 Test 3:

After waterbottle of green smoothie (post run meal).

Result: Large range (80-160 mg/dL)

Day 2 Test 1:

Had morning cup of coffee blend w/ MCT oil (instead of coconut oil) and grass-fed butter, glass of green smoothie (with added MCT oil), omega 3 soft gel and morning commute.

Result: Moderate (40 mg/dL)

Day 2 Test 2:

After Indian Buffet lunch with coworkers consisting of:

• Butter chicken x2 servings
• Fish curry x2
• Salad greens x2
• Fried veg fritters
• Naan
• Glass of water
• 2 sticks of sugar free winter fresh gum.

Result: Definite Large! (160 mg/dL)

Thoughts: I was concerned a large meal would kick me off of ketosis, so I made food choices that appear to have the most amount of fat to cut any carb/insulin effects. In the end, I’m totally shocked how deep my ketone level turned out. And very pleased. I’ve read somewhere that MCT oil is something that might have helped keep me in the ‘dark side’.