Ketones are produced when the body breaks down fat and can indicate impaired insulin production. Stress can increase ketone production, leading to health risks like fainting and coma. Blood samples and glucose monitors can measure ketone levels, and treatment may include medication, diet, and exercise.
Ketones are organic molecules that are created by joining an oxygen atom and a carbon atom. This double bond or compound found in organic chemistry is produced when the body engages in the task of breaking down fat in the body, functioning as an acid. Levels in the system rise when there is an absence of sufficient insulin to allow glucose to permeate the body’s cells. Stress can also cause the number of ketones produced to increase. When unhealthy numbers of ketones are generated on a continuous basis, this leads to a health condition known as ketosis.
Another factor that can trigger excessive production of the molecules has to do with stress. Prolonged and intense periods of stress can lead to more stress hormones showing up in the body and passing in the urine. This can in turn affect the amount of insulin available for glucose processing and trigger the production of more ketones to break down fat and create energy.
Having too many ketones in your system indicates that your body’s ability to produce insulin has been seriously impaired. For this reason, ketone levels are monitored closely in people with diabetes. Measurement can be very important in determining how much insulin the diabetic patient needs to take to restore some semblance of balance. By injecting insulin into the body, production is brought back to a safer level.
When ketone production is not kept in balance, a number of health risks can develop. The individual may begin to experience fainting spells without apparent warning, become forgetful, or experience brief periods of disorientation. If balance is not addressed, the condition can eventually lead to coma or even death.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to measure the levels of ketone compounds in the body. Blood samples can be analyzed to determine if the number of ketones in the system is within acceptable limits. In between tests, using a blood glucose monitor to determine how well the body is functioning in terms of allowing glucose to enter cells and create energy can give you an idea of whether or not glucose levels are increasing. ketones. When blood glucose readings are within acceptable ranges one to two hours after a meal, this is an indication that ketones are not overproducing and glucose is being absorbed properly.
When diagnosed with ketosis, patients should ensure that they follow the instructions given by their treating physician. The course of treatment may include oral medications, as well as changes in diet and exercise in an attempt to restore balance to the body.
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