Ketones are chemicals that your liver produces when it breaks down fats for energy. Normally, your body uses glucose, a type of sugar, for energy, but during fasting, long periods of exercise, or when you don’t have as many carbohydrates, your body uses ketones for energy. Ketones can be detected in your blood or urine, and high levels of ketones in your blood or urine can mean youre at risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening. People with diabetes, especially type 1 diabetes, are at a higher risk of developing high levels of ketones.

It is important to be aware of your ketone level and to check for ketones in your blood or urine if you notice symptoms such as fruity breath, high blood sugar levels, frequent urination, being really thirsty, feeling more tired than usual, stomach pain, changes to your breathing, confusion, or other symptoms. The best way to check your ketone levels is using a ketone monitor to check your blood. Ketone test strips are also available to check for ketones in your urine.

People on the keto diet purposely cut back on carbs and eat more fatty foods so their bodies will burn more fat and produce ketones. However, inducing ketosis with the keto diet may not be suitable for everyone, and it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before trying this diet.