Ketosis

Ketosis



A natural state of ketosis occurs in the body when we go without eating for an extended period of time. Once our body has used up easily consumed glucose for energy, we start to convert fats in our body to ketones for energy; this state is called ketosis. Nearly all cells in the body can use ketones for energy but cells will selectively use glucose when it is present. A state of ketosis is very different from ketoacidosis (a serious health condition/state that is typically a result of Type I Diabetes or severe alcoholism).


What are the health benefits or implications from being in a ketogenic state? 


A ketogenic state can be accomplished with dietary changes that do not require starvation or even calorie restriction. A ketogenic diet has long been used for treatment of childhood epilepsy. Currently, it is recommended by doctors after the failure of at least 2 drugs for epilepsy; though, research shows that it is more effective than any current epilepsy drug with far fewer side effects or risks.


In addition to care for epilepsy, other health benefits that current research is illuminating regarding a ketogenic diet are:


-Significantly lowers triglycerides, LDL cholesterol (“bad cholesterol”) and blood glucose, and increased the level of HDL cholesterol (“good or protective cholesterol”).

-Reduces the risks for and symptoms of dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases and actually improves cognitive impairment associated with all stages of dementia.

-May treat cancer and/or reduce the risks of cancer...cancer cannot survive on ketones as an energy source but thrives on glucose. The ketogenic diet significantly reduces circulating glucose and feeds cells with ketones.

-May effectively promote weight loss.

-Some research shows promise for treating Migraine headaches, autism, depression and other psychiatric disorders though research and mechanisms of action on these topics is scant.


Risks of being in a state of ketosis are weight loss, dehydration and if prolonged, kidney stones have been correlated. Some reports of a lack of quality nutrition have been associated with a ketogenic diet, pointing to a lack of micronutrients. A quality daily multi-vitamin and adequate water consumption can accommodate for these shortcomings.



Aside from starvation, how does a person acquire a state of ketosis?


There are several methods:

-Quite a few intermittent fasting protocols can promote a ketogenic state and have been shown to have many health benefits. (Some people may consider this starvation so let's move on to other methods.)

-The Ketogenic Diet...goals of this diet are to restrict all sugars (carbohydrates) and increase healthy fats (Omega-3s and Medium Chain Triglycerides(MCTs)). This diet focuses on consuming plenty of proteins (meat, poultry, fish, eggs and nuts), plenty of veggies and low sugar fruits...and doing everything possible to stay away from sugars and carbs (grains). Using olive oil, coconut oil, butter and ghee as opposed to corn, canola or vegatable oils. (gotta love a diet where you get a thumbs up for bacon!) (Avocados, salmon and nuts are excellent sources of healthy fats.)

-Some reports of significantly increasing coconut oil (an MCT) and other MCTs into the diet by supplementation and/or health products can induce a ketogenic state; however, recent research concluded that there were no differences in health outcomes between control subjects and those supplementing in order to attain a ketogenic state.

-A heathly combination of the above may be the easiest to tolerate. Adjusting the diet to significantly reduce (not necessarily eliminate) sugar and carbohydrates form the diet, shifting the types of fats and oils consumed and the most gentle intermittent fasting protocol may accomplish the desired outcomes. (Gentle intermittent fasting protocol=try not to consume anything other than water for 16 hours out of every day...if you start eating at 10am, be finished eating by 6pm)


If you have questions regarding ketosis, need support or dietary advice feel free to discuss you questions or concerns with your doctor at Gallatin Valley Chiropractic.

406-551-2177


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