Test OVERVIEW

A ketone test can warn you of a serious diabetes complication called diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA. An elevated level of this substance in your blood can mean you have very high blood sugar.  Unlike fatty acids, ketones can cross the blood-brain barrier and provide energy for your brain in the absence of glucose. Ketosis is a metabolic state in which ketones become an important source of energy for the body and brain.

​

WHY

​Why would you do this test?   Dehydration is a common symptom of a high ketone level.  By knowing the bodies ketone level earlier, you can treat these symptoms. This may help athletes to stay out of the hospital. Coaches are encouraged to keep a ketone tester with them at all times.  If a person has too many ketones in their body, they may be at risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

 

RECOMMENDED

Who is this test recommended for?  Ketone testing is recommended for every athlete of every age regardless of the sport they play.

​

HOW OFTEN

How often should you repeat this test?  Ketone testing is recommended as often as daily or multiple times a day before and after practice, first thing in the morning and before bed.

 

BODY PARTS

​Which body parts are or can be tested?  Ketone testing identifies the ketones currently active in an athletes body.

 

RESULTS

What should the ketone test results be?  1.6 to 3.0 mmol/L – a high level of ketones and could present a risk of ketoacidosis. It is advisable to contact your healthcare team for advice.

 

SUMMARY

 What does this help to improve?  Symptoms of an athlete with high ketone levels are, excessive thirst,  frequent urination, nausea and vomiting,  stomach pain, weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath,  fruity-scented breath and Confusion.

 

​