KETONE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: The Delhi Chief Minister's recent significant weight loss and elevated ketone levels raise concerns.

Ketone

• About: Ketones are organic compounds produced during ketosis when the body breaks down fat for energy due to insufficient glucose or carbohydrates.

oThey serve as an alternative energy source, especially for the brain.

• Level of Ketone in the Body: Ketone levels increase due to factors like a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet, prolonged fasting, starvation, or metabolic disorders such as diabetes.

oInsufficient insulin or insulin resistance in diabetics can lead to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

• Symptoms:

oEarly symptoms include dry mouth, dry skin, dehydration, headache, frequent urination, and extreme thirst.

oWithout treatment, DKA symptoms can progress rapidly within 24 hours, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, confusion, and fruity-smelling breath.

• Common Treatments: It depends on the severity of ketone levels, often involving steps to lower levels at home.

oHealthcare providers may advise on insulin dosage, food and water intake, safe activity levels, and frequency of blood sugar and ketone monitoring.