Health Updates: How many ketones should there be?

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal is suffering from diabetes. Due to this, he has to follow a very balanced lifestyle. In such a situation, after his arrest in March, his weight started decreasing very rapidly. 

According to media reports, he has still not recovered from this. Along with this, the ketone level of the body has also been found to be increased in the test. Which the doctor has described as worrying. In such a situation, what is the ketone level? What should be its quantity in the body? What will happen if its quantity increases in the body of a diabetic patient? Knowing the answers to such questions is also very important for your health.  

What is a ketone?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, ketones are a type of acid that is produced in the body during fat burning. The body usually uses glucose for energy which is obtained from the diet. But when the production of glucose decreases, the body starts breaking down fat for energy. As a result, ketones are produced in the liver and are excreted from the body through urine via the blood vessels.

Why are ketones important?

Ketones provide energy to your brain and body in the absence of glucose. This is a kind of backup energy production plan for the body. When the main source of energy i.e. glucose level in the body is low, then energy is obtained from it.

How many ketones should there be?

In the blood test, ketone levels less than .6 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) are normal, .6 to 1.5 mmol/L is medium risk, 1.6 to 2.9 mmol/L is high risk of DKA and more than 3.0 mmol/L comes in the category of emergency. Let us tell you that ketone level is checked in two ways - blood test and urine test. A blood test is better for accurate information. Urine test reveals ketone level only up to a few hours before.

What will happen if its quantity increases in diabetes?

According to NCBI, high levels of ketones make the blood toxic and acidic. This is a serious condition called ketoacidosis. Its high level in a diabetic patient is called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). If its treatment is not started immediately, it increases the risk of the patient going into a coma. 

Symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Feeling thirsty frequently

urinating more frequently than usual

Vomiting and diarrhea

stomach pain

Dryness of skin and mouth

fast, deep breathing

Headache

Muscle stiffness or pain

The illusion of fatigue

What to do if ketones are high?

Monitor insulin and blood sugar levels daily as ketone levels increase. Create a diet plan that includes carbohydrates to increase glucose levels. Drink plenty of water so that ketones can be easily flushed out of the body.

Disclaimer: Dear reader, thank you for reading this news. This news has been written only to make you aware. We have taken the help of home remedies and general information in writing this. If you read anything related to your health anywhere, then definitely consult a doctor before adopting it.