URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6472268/pdf/nihms-1015199.pdf
Journal: Current Nutrition Reports
Publication Date: 09/2018
Summary: The goal of this paper is to review current literature on nutritional ketosis within the context of weight management and metabolic syndrome—namely insulin resistance, lipid profile and cardiovascular disease risk, and development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. We provide background on the mechanism of ketogenesis and describe nutritional ketosis. Nutritional ketosis has been found to improve metabolic and inflammatory markers, including lipids, HbA1c, high-sensitivity CRP, fasting insulin and glucose levels, and aid in weight management. We discuss these findings and elaborate on potential mechanisms of ketones for promoting weight loss, decreasing hunger, and increasing satiety. Humans have evolved with the capacity for metabolic flexibility and the ability to use ketones for fuel. During states of low dietary carbohydrate intake, insulin levels remain low and ketogenesis takes place. These conditions promote breakdown of excess fat stores, sparing of lean muscle, and improvement in insulin sensitivity.
Key Takeaways
Ketogenic diets that exclude carbohydrates have been shown to decrease inflammation in the body, decrease blood sugar, promote weight loss while decreasing hunger, and preserve lean muscle. This dieting approach is the product of our built in ability to utilize stored body fat as a fuel source in times of low carbohydrate intake or availability.
