When actively and accurately testing blood ketone levels, it is important to know what your results mean for your current state of ketosis.
Low ketone levels (0.0-0.5 mmol/L): For people following a ketogenic diet, this range could indicate early stages of ketosis or not producing a significant amount of ketones yet. It’s normal for some people to fluctuate around this level when their body is still adjusting to burning fat for fuel. For people with diabetes, especially those with type 2 diabetes, this level suggests the body is not in a state of excess ketones.
Moderate ketone levels (0.6 - 1.5 mmol/L): For people on a ketogenic diet, this level is often what they aim for. It indicates a moderate level of ketone production, suggesting the body is burning fat for fuel efficiently. Diabetics may see these levels when they are following a low-carb diet, but it’s important to monitor this level. While not dangerous on its own, it is a good indicator that the body is in fat-burning mode, but levels should be carefully monitored to avoid diabetic ketoacidosis.
High ketone levels (1.6 - 3.0 mmol/L): For people following a strict ketogenic diet, these levels indicate a strong fat-burning process. This can be desirable for those trying to lose weight or manage specific health conditions (like epilepsy). For people with diabetes, a blood ketone level in this range could indicate that the body is producing a lot of ketones. This may be a sign to watch closely to ensure that it doesn’t progress to diabetic ketoacidosis.
Very high ketone Levels (3.1 - 5.0 mmol/L): These levels may be normal for people undergoing extreme phases of ketosis (such as during fasting or intense exercise), but it could also indicate excessive ketone production if you're not intentionally trying to reach this level. For people with diabetes, this level could signal the beginning of diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition. This condition occurs when the body doesn’t have enough insulin, and ketones build up in the blood at dangerous levels. Immediate action is required.
Dangerously high ketone levels (above 5.0 mmol/L): For most people on a ketogenic diet, these levels are considered too high. It suggests that the body is producing ketones at an unsustainable rate, and it could lead to health risks if left unchecked. In people with type 1 diabetes, blood ketone levels above 5.0 mmol/L are a major warning sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires immediate medical attention.