One serving of exogenous ketones contains about 8-12g of ketones/ serving, and studies show that 12g of BHB salts triple your ketone levels.
Exogenous keto supplements are extremely effective if you want to reap the benefits of a ketogenic diet without drastically reducing your carbs intake.
BHB salts retailers promise their products to help reduce symptoms of the keto flu, which include GI issues, headaches, cramps and tiredness, though the research is not yet detailed on these benefits.
But what are the side effects? Are exogenous ketones dangerous?
Possibly.
Exogenous ketone supplements have various toxic effects. They impact your health. They might even prove deadly if you have certain medical conditions.
Read the article below to find out more about the risks of these supplements.
Exogenous ketones are ketones produced in labs that increase your blood ketone levels artificially, mimicking ketosis so that you can lose weight, have more stamina, and a clearer head.
If you’re on this website, you must have heard about the ketogenic diet.
This diet is low in carbs and high in healthy fats and promises to help you lose fat by burning through your fat deposits your body’s primary source of energy is glucose, obtained from burning carbs.
When you restrict your carb intake, your organism is forced to burn something else for energy, aka your fat stores.
Ketones are the byproduct of fat stores you burn for energy.
When you have a lot of ketones in your organism, your blood ketone levels are increased, and you reach the promised land of the ketogenic diet: you are in ketosis, your metabolism is increased, you feel energetic, and you can lose fat faster.
The ketones produced in your organism are called endogenous ketones, endogenous literally meaning “from the inside”.
They are produced outside your organism in labs, and that’s why ketone supplements are called exogenous ketones.
What’s the difference between exogenous and endogenous ketones?
There are three different types of ketones your organism produces naturally:
Exogenous ketone supplements contain just BHBs, which are the most chemically stable and can easily be turned into pills or powders. These pills or powders contain BHB salts, meaning BHBs linked to a few minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, or sodium.
Exogenous ketones can also be linked to chemicals called esters to produce a liquid supplement. However, these types of best ketogenic supplements are mainly used for research and not retailed for general use.
Exogenous ketones have the same effects on your body as regular ketones because they increase your ketone levels artificially, so your brain thinks you’re in ketosis.
My Experience with Exogenous Ketones?
My experience taking this supplementation began a few years ago. I always had a hectic lifestyle, with lots of work, family, plus a ton of hobbies, and I didn’t want to give anything up.
As a result, my energy levels were plummeting every day. I heard about taking magnesium and vitamin B6 to reduce my fatigue, but it didn’t work.
Then I did some research on the ketogenic diet. At the time, I was eating ten doughnuts every day, plus pizza for lunch and dinner.
You can imagine I also gained a few extra pounds, but I was always feeling hungry, stressed, and found it hard to focus.
I decided to reduce my carbs first. I didn’t follow a strict ketogenic diet, but I stopped eating processed carbs like sugar, and I also aimed to eat healthy fats nuts, avocado, yogurt, and organic meat.
I’ll tell you more below on what ketones I took, but here’s my experience in a nutshell:
I have been taking exogenous ketones ever since then, on and off for various reasons:
The Potential Downsides of Using Exogenous Ketones
There are not many dangers of taking, though there are some risks to consider.
Although they are proven to curb your appetite, it is not yet clear that exogenous ketones help you lose weight because:
Benefits of Drinking Ketones
Because they provide immediate fuel, ketone esters have the benefit of allowing you to fuel your body quickly. No need to wait for your stomach to signal that you’re hungry. Drinking ketone esters is a quick way to refuel your body. Ketone esters fuel you instantly because they can cross the blood-brain barrier at a very high rate. The quick rate at which they enter your body means they can do a lot of work for your body. The small molecule they release is very powerful and makes you feel full, especially fast.
The ketone ester effect goes beyond this. Eating ketone esters temporarily fill your body’s energy stores. In a full metabolic state, your body has more stored energy and you are able to function at a higher capacity. Ketone esters can aid in energy conservation, fighting free radicals, improving your mood, boosting your athletic performance, and treating inflammatory diseases.
Other side-effects include:
- 1Unknown long-term effects on your body
- 2GI distress, including nausea, cramps, and diarrhea
- 3Vitamin overdose because ketone salts provide 100% of your sodium DRV, 300% of DRV magnesium, and 150% of the DRV calcium
Any Benefits? Are Exogenous Ketones Safe?
The safety concerns on exogenous ketones regard the high intake of minerals per serving. If you’re overdosing on these supplements, you might experience severe diarrhea and dehydration, which is why you should respect the recommended dosage.
As it happened in my case and with plenty of other happy customers, they helped me a lot. Here are some of their reported benefits:
To make the most of these benefits, read the section below. Timing is as important as your dose of ketones:
When to Take Exogenous Ketones
One study showed that people who took exogenous ketones in the morning, on an empty stomach, experienced a 50% decrease in their appetite as compared to those who drank a sugary drink.
But, if you’ve eaten right before taking your ketone supplementation, your blood ketone levels might not increase as much according to several studies.
Ketone supplements are more efficient in the morning or during a fast because otherwise, your body will burn the extra glucose from carbs rather than the ketones from the supplements.
You can also take exogenous ketones after a workout or before bed if you’ve recently eaten. Your ketone levels will increase to some extent, but not as much as during a fast.
Should You Use Exogenous Ketones Supplements to Put Your Body in Ketosis?
The answer was yes in my case, and I’m sure the answer is yes for most people, although there are some good Reddit controversies on the matter.
If you have diabetes, thyroid conditions, liver problems, or heart issues, talk to your GP before taking them. In fact, discuss this decision with your GP no matter who you are.
That said, they help trigger ketosis if:
How to Choose a Good Exogenous Ketone Supplement
Here are some factors to take into account:
Who Should Not Take Ketones?
Because of its side effects, you’re better off skipping the supplements that are unnecessary for you. People who are using ketone esters to supplement their cardio workout, for recovery, and/or even for muscle growth. A smart choice would be to take the diet pill or generic ‘Slimfast’ which are essentially ketone esters.
People who are taking prescription or legal meds that reduce the desire for glucose. These include anti-diabetic drugs, insulin, and medicines to decrease seizure activity in patients with epilepsy. People take medications to reduce the inflammation in the body. Examples of this include medications to decrease pain, arthritis pain, and pain in the joints. People who take anti-inflammatory drugs, reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Do Exogenous Ketones Do Anything?
The only real reason to consider taking ketones is because of the exceptional benefits provided by the ketogenic diet. They allow the body to burn fat for fuel rather than carbohydrates and will almost certainly make it easier to lose weight. There’s really no evidence that they are a superior weight-loss treatment over the ketogenic diet or any other fat-burning diet.
So it’s no surprise that no established medical journal has ever published a study suggesting that exogenous ketones may be useful as an alternative to the ketogenic diet. If there was any evidence that they might be effective, then why not consider them alongside standard therapy rather than replace it?
Here are a few choices I tried after reading all the ketone supplement reviews I could find:
Perfect Keto is the best overall choice because it’s certified by doctors, it increases your energy levels and focus, it eliminates hunger pangs, and it tastes great. I had no side effects with none of the Perfect Keto products, including their MCT oils and powders.
Purefit Keto (Keto BodyTone) is a trustworthy product, which I took for a few months when I wanted to lose fat fast. This supplement comes in a convenient capsule form, it works fast, and it gave me the biggest energy boosts before my workouts. Keto BodyTone worked great after cheat meals too. But no, Purefit Keto wasn’t featured on Shark Tank!
Kiss My Keto has different flavors and options, some of which include MCT oils. Kiss My Keto supplements trigger ketosis fast, although they don’t taste extraordinary.
Kegenix Prime is good for speeding ketosis. I saw this product on both Reddit and Amazon. I tried it for three weeks, and it helped me lose fat, but it also gave me some nausea.
Pruvit OS promises to kickstart ketosis in about half an hour. I took these powder supplements in my morning smoothies, and I noticed they increased my focus and gave me energy. They also have some caffeine and come in a single flavor, but they helped me with my morning run.
Experiencing ketosis and ketosis-associated benefits take longer than learning about them; consequently, a mostly vegetarian diet is a more practical, if less pristine, means of providing nutrient-rich carbohydrate at a constant ketone level. These guidelines are purely cultural and are not always practical; therefore, they are tailored to allow me to live a full and healthy life while still consuming as much protein as I desire. I have not tried using animal products in this way, so please don’t use them as your guide, but be advised that meats are not the primary source of dietary carbs. People usually get their protein from fish, meat, eggs, cheese, etc. With this in mind, if you want to eat “mostly vegetarian” as a matter of principle, just remember that your organism will require some carbohydrate.
About Pruvit Exogenous Ketones
Pruvit is excited to announce the release of a new drug-free category for the products in our range of Energizing Ketone Products. Drug-free ketone products are great options for those who are on particular medications or are sensitive to pharmaceuticals such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Pruvit supplies a convenient, strong, natural, unadulterated ketone formula for use as a dietary supplement. At the center of the formula is an ingredient known as RuBP – the main constituent of the body’s own ketone organism (cytochrome c oxidase). We call it RuBP because of its chemical structure and we are just like parents who say “this is a nice child you’ve got there!”.
How Does It Work? RuBP is a powerful antioxidant and powerful metabolite. It is broken down into acids and monoesters when it enters the organism and is converted to a ketone organism in the liver. Pruvit EKs are water-soluble and absorb quickly in the bloodstream. This allows the metabolic processes to occur and maximize the effects of the ketone metabolite. It allows users to ingest our product with minimal discomfort. In people with diabetes, ketoacidosis occurs with a high blood sugar level and a lowered PH in the blood.
Perfect Keto is the best because it’s backed by research and comes with physicians’ approvals. This product tastes the best from all the supplements I tried, and it kickstarted my ketosis the fastest.
How to Take Keto Weight Loss Supplements
Follow the instructions on the label, but here are some tips to remember:
- Follow a low-carb diet
- Don’t take these supplements after you eat
- At least one serving should be on an empty stomach
- Swallow the pills with enough water
- Mix the powder or oil supplements in a keto-friendly smoothie
- Don’t go over the maximum recommended limit
Is Keto Bad for Your Liver?
A popular diet trending these days, Keto is quite different from traditional diets. It is a low-carb diet with around 55 to 65 percent of daily calories coming from fat and 35 to 40 percent of the calories coming from carbohydrates. The diet suggests that you are able to burn off as many as 1,300 calories daily and lose one to three pounds of body fat per week.
It is not just a weight loss diet but also is recommended for people suffering from diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. But there have been numerous people who have gone in for the Keto diet for various other reasons. People who are underweight, pregnant, and people who suffer from liver problems. For these people, Keto is a very dangerous diet. Liver Problems. Most people believe that going on the Keto diet is a good thing but there are certain cases when Keto is bad for the liver. Liver problems are among the first reason that leads to the death of people.
Exogenous Ketones For Mental Health
Exogenous ketones, compounds introduced externally to the body, have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential impact on mental health. The primary ketone bodies—beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), acetoacetate, and acetone—serve as alternative energy substrates to glucose when the body is in a state of ketosis, achieved through a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet or exogenous ketone supplementation.
Mounting scientific evidence suggests a plausible connection between exogenous ketones and cognitive function. BHB, the predominant ketone in exogenous ketone supplements, not only acts as a more efficient fuel for the brain but also exhibits neuroprotective properties. Research indicates that BHB can enhance mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate inflammation—key factors influencing neuronal health.
Moreover, ketones’ influence on neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors underscores their potential impact on mood and mental well-being. BHB has been shown to affect gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially contributing to anxiolytic effects. Additionally, ketones may induce the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein crucial for neuronal growth, survival, and synaptic plasticity.
Emerging studies also explore the role of exogenous ketones in mitigating neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The neuroprotective effects of ketones, coupled with their ability to enhance cerebral blood flow, could offer promising avenues for therapeutic interventions in conditions characterized by cognitive decline.
It is essential to note that while preliminary findings are promising, further rigorous clinical trials are warranted to establish the efficacy and safety of exogenous ketones for mental health. Individual responses may vary, and considerations regarding dosage, duration, and specific populations need careful exploration.
In conclusion, the burgeoning field of exogenous ketone research presents intriguing possibilities for mental health enhancement. The multifaceted mechanisms by which ketones influence neuronal function, coupled with their potential neuroprotective and mood-modulating effects, warrant continued investigation into their therapeutic applications for mental well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Drink Ketones to Lose Weight?
To effectively incorporate ketones into your weight loss journey, it is important to understand how to consume them in a strategic and mindful manner. Here are some guidelines to consider:
Start with a ketogenic diet: Prioritize adopting a well-formulated ketogenic diet to induce and maintain a state of ketosis. This involves reducing carbohydrate intake while increasing healthy fat consumption. Ketones are most effective for fat loss when combined with a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan.
Choose the right ketone supplements: Opt for exogenous ketone supplements that are specifically formulated for weight loss. Look for products that contain a blend of ketone salts, such as beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) salts, which can help elevate blood ketone levels.
Follow dosage instructions: Adhere to the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer. It’s important not to exceed the recommended intake, as excessive ketone consumption may have adverse effects.
Time your consumption: To maximize the impact of ketones on fat loss, consider taking them before engaging in physical activity. This can provide an additional energy source during workouts and potentially enhance fat burning.
Be consistent: Consistency is key when incorporating ketones for fat loss. Establish a routine for consuming ketone bodies supplements, whether it’s daily or at specific times that align with your dietary and exercise regimen.
Monitor your progress: Regularly assess your weight loss progress and overall well-being to determine if the inclusion of ketones is aiding your goals. Remember, weight loss is a multifaceted process that requires a comprehensive approach, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors.
Hydrate adequately: Ketones can have a diuretic effect, so it’s crucial to maintain proper hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and support overall health.
Consider professional guidance: If you have specific weight loss goals or health concerns, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and guide you through the weight loss process.
Practice portion control: While ketones can enhance weight loss efforts, it’s important to maintain portion control and adhere to a balanced diet. Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods and creating a calorie deficit, as weight loss ultimately depends on energy balance.
Be patient and realistic: Sustainable fat loss takes time and patience. Set realistic goals, track your progress, and make adjustments as necessary. Remember that ketones are not a magical solution, but rather a tool that can support your overall weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Ketone supplements are marketed as a quick solution to reach ketosis.
It’s crucial to prioritize your overall health and well-being when embarking on a fat loss journey. Ketones can be a useful addition, but they should be viewed as part of a comprehensive approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sustainable lifestyle changes.
Are Ketones Bad for the Brain?
Ketones are not inherently bad for the brain; in fact, under certain circumstances, they can provide significant benefits and serve as an alternative fuel source for brain cells. Ketones are produced by the liver during periods of low carbohydrate intake or fasting when the body shifts into a metabolic state known as ketosis.
The brain typically relies on glucose as its primary energy source. However, when glucose availability is limited, such as during fasting or carbohydrate restriction, the liver begins to produce ketones from fatty acids. These ketones, namely beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), acetoacetate, and acetone, can cross the blood-brain barrier and be utilized by neurons as an alternative energy source.
Research suggests that ketones may offer several benefits for brain health and function. For example, ketones have been shown to provide a more stable and efficient source of energy for the brain compared to glucose. Additionally, ketones may have neuroprotective effects, helping to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal damage.
Furthermore, ketones may enhance cognitive function and memory. Some studies have demonstrated improved cognitive performance and memory in individuals following a ketogenic diet, which is characterized by high fat, low carbohydrate intake and leads to increased production of ketones. Ketones may also support the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons.
However, it’s essential to note that the effects of ketones on the brain may vary depending on factors such as age, health status, and the specific context in which they are produced. While ketones can be beneficial under certain conditions, such as during fasting or ketogenic dieting, excessively high levels of ketones, particularly in the context of uncontrolled diabetes or ketoacidosis, can be harmful and lead to adverse effects on brain function.
In summary, ketones are not inherently bad for the brain and can provide significant benefits under certain circumstances. They serve as an alternative fuel source for brain cells and may offer neuroprotective effects, enhance cognitive function, and support brain health. However, it’s essential to maintain balance and ensure that ketone levels remain within a safe and healthy range to avoid potential adverse effects on brain function. As always, individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes or implementing fasting protocols.
The Verdict. Are Ketones Dangerous?
Ketone supplements are said to trigger ketosis, and some studies show they curb your appetite and help burn through your fat stores.
Although the research is limited in this area, there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence they work. I tried a lot of keto supplements in my day, and Perfect Keto was the best brand I found.
Their EK helped me enter ketosis quickly, lose weight, and feel energized throughout the day.
I read a lot of positive reviews online. Although some people complain about these supplements didn’t work, my guess is most of them didn’t do their part, meaning they didn’t exercise or eat clean.
Exogenous ketones work, but they don’t do the work for you!
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