Ketones are an alternate energy source the body turns to when its primary fuel,glucose, is unavailable.
They are produced by the liver in the process of breaking down fat.
People with diabetes are at risk of a life-threatening complication known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
If left untreated, DKA can cause damage to organs and even death.
This article explains the signs and symptoms of ketones in urine.
Ketones are released when the body breaks down fat to use for energy.
Glucose (blood sugar) is the body’s main fuel source.
When glucose is unavailable, the body burns fat instead.
This happens when fasting or on a very low carbohydrate diet.
Known as nutritional ketosis, it causes small to moderate levels of ketones in urine.
High ketone levels are more common in people with diabetes and can lead to DKA.
It triggers when the body doesn’t have enoughinsulinto allow blood sugar into cells.
Instead, the liver breaks down fat, producing acids called ketones.
These can build up to dangerous levels and require prompt medical attention.
They change color based on the concentration of ketones in your urine.
A slight color change shows you have a trace or small amounts of ketones, which is normal.
Darker color changes indicate moderate to large amounts of ketones and are at risk of ketoacidosis.
Common symptoms of ketonuria include:
Ketonuria symptoms are sometimes the first sign that a person may have diabetes.
If you have these symptoms, see your healthcare provider.
Causes of High Ketone Levels
Ketonuria is most common in people with diabetes, particularlytype 1 diabetes.
So, if you have high ketones in your urine, it is an indication of an insulin problem.
Reasons for this might include:
Severe infections, includingCOVID-19, can also lead to ketonuria.
When Should You Get Your Ketones Tested?
High levels can cause acids to rapidly accumulate in the blood, leading to ketoacidosis.
This is damaging to your vital organs and can even lead to death if not treated appropriately.
In people with diabetes, the condition is known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
In those without, it is referred to as non-diabetic ketoacidosis (non-DKA).
Ketones are chemicals produced by the liver that increase whenever glucose (blood sugar) levels are low.
Symptoms include frequent urination, fruity breath, extreme fatigue, nausea or vomiting, and breathing difficulty.
American Diabetes Association.Five things to know about ketones.
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MedlinePlus.Acidosis.
