Ketosis

Question 1

When does fat become the primary fuel for energy production?

Answer 1

When carbohydrate levels are low, fat becomes the primary fuel for energy production.

Question 2

Why is ketone synthesis necessary?

Answer 2

Ketone synthesis is necessary because the brain cannot metabolize fatty acids directly.

Question 3

How are ketones produced during low glucose availability?

Answer 3

During ketosis, acetyl-CoA is converted into acetoacetate or β-hydroxybutyrate (β-OHB) by ketogenesis.

Question 4

What is the process by which acetoacetate forms acetone?

Answer 4

Acetoacetate can undergo decarboxylation to form acetone, which gives a characteristic sweet smell to the breath.

Question 5

What happens during ketosis?

Answer 5

Ketosis occurs when carbohydrate intake is restricted (less than 40 g/day), shifting the primary fuel source from glucose to fat.

Question 6

What health benefits are linked to ketosis?

Answer 6

Ketosis is linked to weight loss and the management of epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Question 7

How is nutritional ketosis different from ketoacidosis?

Answer 7

Nutritional ketosis is a safe metabolic state, while ketoacidosis is dangerous due to insufficient insulin regulation, leading to excessive β-OHB.