Ketones

Urine tests for ketones are performed to detect the presence of ketone bodies in the urine. These tests are often done as part of routine health check-ups or when a person is suspected of having uncontrolled diabetes. They are also used to monitor the health of people following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet.

Ketones are byproducts of fat breakdown and are produced when the body doesn't have enough insulin to process glucose for energy. In such cases, the body turns to breaking down fats for energy, leading to an increase in ketones in the blood and urine. This occurs when glucose levels are low, such as in uncontrolled diabetes, starvation, or low carbohydrate diets.

In uncontrolled diabetes, high levels of ketones can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous complication of diabetes that can lead to coma and death if left untreated. In these cases, the presence of ketones in the urine is a sign that the person should seek medical attention immediately.

For people following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet, urine tests for ketones can be used to monitor their progress and ensure that they are in a state of ketosis. This can be useful for individuals who want to lose weight, as well as athletes who want to improve their performance.

In conclusion, urine tests for ketones are an important tool for monitoring the health of people with uncontrolled diabetes and those following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet. They provide valuable information about the body's metabolism and can help detect potential health problems early on.