Ketosis 

Ketosis is a potentially serious condition that occurs when there are raised levels of chemicals called ketones in the blood.

Ketosis is often caused by a diet that is very low in carbohydrate. Carbohydrate is the main food group that is required by the body for producing energy, and it plays a key part in a healthy, balanced diet.

Fat metabolism

Carbohydrates are normally broken down into glucose, which is then converted into energy and transported to the body’s muscles and organs.

However, if there is a lack of glucose, or if it is not possible for glucose to be broken down - for example, if your body does not produce enough insulin - the body will have to break down stored fat in order to convert it into energy. This is known as fat metabolism.

Fat metabolism causes a build-up of ketones in the blood, resulting in ketosis. Ketosis can occur during:

• starvation
• diabetes mellitus (type 1 diabetes)
• alcoholism

Ketones

As your body starts to break down fat rather than glucose, the levels of ketones in your blood will begin to rise. Ketones are acidic chemicals such as:

• acetone
• acetoacetate
• beta-hydroxybutyrate

If left to build up, ketones can increase the acidity levels of your blood, which can affect your urine and may eventually cause serious damage to your liver and kidneys.

Your body may try to get rid of the excess amount of acetone through your lungs, which can give your breath a sweet, fruity smell that is sometimes mistaken for alcohol.