Signs You’re in Ketosis
Ketosis is one of the best ways to lose weight and increase energy levels. It is important to know the signs of ketosis, so you can monitor your progress and ensure that you are getting the most out of your diet. Here are some of the most common symptoms of ketosis to look out for if you’re new to the keto diet.
A Quick Explanation
Before we jump into the signs and symptoms of ketosis, it is important to understand what ketosis is and how it works. Ketosis is a metabolic process your body enters when you restrict carbohydrates in your diet. When this happens, the body begins to produce ketones from stored fat instead of glucose as an energy source. As these ketones accumulate in the blood, they can be detected and used as signposts to show that you are in ketosis.
While some of these symptoms below might be a bit unpleasant, it’s important to remember the many benefits of ketosis, including:
- Regulated blood sugar levels
- Weight loss
- Increased mental clarity and focus
- Improved energy levels
Signs You’re in Ketosis
Now that we have a handle on what ketosis is and why some of these symptoms below shouldn’t be a total drawback from engaging in a keto diet, let’s see what signs you should look for to determine if ketosis has been achieved.
1. Bad Breath
One of the most common signs that you are in ketosis is bad breath, known as “keto breath.” This is caused by increased acetone production in your body, which has a distinct odor similar to acetone, or nail polish. This bad breath typically fades with time as your body adjusts to the keto diet.
While it might be a bit unpleasant, it is an indicator that your body is making the transition into ketosis. If you’re currently suffering from keto breath, some things to help include:
- Brushing and flossing regularly
- Drinking plenty of water
- Using sugar-free gum or mints
2. Weight Loss
As you begin to transition into a state of ketosis, your body will start to burn fat stores instead of glucose in order to generate energy. This means that if you are following a strict keto diet and working out regularly, you should start seeing some noticeable weight loss within the first few weeks.
If your weight loss is significant, don’t be alarmed! This is a normal sign of ketosis, and your body is simply adjusting to the new diet. However, if you still have concerns, speak to your doctor about healthy weight loss and how fast it should happen. If you’re pregnant, for instance, and are on a keto diet, you should always speak to your doctor about any weight loss and adjustments in carb intake.
3. Increased Energy
One of the biggest benefits of ketosis is increased energy levels. As your body begins to burn fat instead of glucose for energy, you may find yourself feeling more energetic than usual as well as an overall improved mood. This is due to the fact that when your body is in ketosis it can more efficiently use fuel provided by stored fat as an energy source.
Unfortunately, this increase in energy isn’t seen immediately and may take a few weeks before you start to feel it. However, once your body is fully adapted to the keto diet and in a state of ketosis, you should begin to notice a steady increase in energy levels as well as mental clarity.
In the meantime, you might enter what is known as a “keto flu”, which is a period of low energy, nausea, and other flu-like symptoms that typically last a few days. These flu-like symptoms are caused by the body’s transition into ketosis, and will likely go away as your body adjusts. In the meantime, however, you might feel the worst of these symptoms at the beginning as your body is adjusting. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor, but know that it’s normal! And you will bounce back feeling more energetic than before you started your keto diet.
4. Improved Mental Focus and Clarity
As your body enters a state of ketosis, you may find yourself feeling more mentally alert than usual. This is because in ketosis the brain has increased access to fuel provided by fatty acids, which can improve focus and clarity. You may also find yourself feeling less foggy than usual, as the keto diet can help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation in the brain.
This improved mental focus and clarity is one of the major benefits of entering a state of ketosis and sticking with it.
The Bottom Line
These are just a few of the signs that you may be in ketosis or transitioning into it. If you are following a keto diet and notice any of these symptoms, you can safely assume that your body is adjusting to the new lifestyle and beginning the process of entering ketosis. However, if any of these symptoms become bothersome, it’s always best to check with your doctor for advice and guidance.
Remember- ketosis is a natural state of the body, and should not be feared! With the proper diet and exercise adjustments, you can safely enter into a state of ketosis and enjoy all the positive benefits that come along with it. Good luck!
