Understanding the Keto Diet and Ketosis
The ketogenic or "keto" diet is a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that shares similarities with low carb diets like the Atkins diet. The primary goal of the keto diet is to put the body into a metabolic state known as ketosis.
Ketosis occurs when the liver breaks down fat into fatty acids and ketone bodies to be used for energy, since glucose availability from carbs is very low. Ketones serve as an alternative energy source for the body and brain when blood sugar and glycogen stores are depleted.
Being in nutritional ketosis offers powerful benefits like:
- Enhanced weight loss
- Better blood sugar regulation
- Improved mental focus and clarity
- Increased energy
- Reduced cravings
However, it can take several days to weeks of very low carb intake, usually below 50g daily, for the body to start producing and using ketones efficiently through dietary changes alone.
Using Exogenous Ketone Supplements
Exogenous ketone supplements provide the body with external sources of ketones in the form of ketone salts and ketone esters. This can help induce ketosis more quickly and efficiently.
There are several purported benefits of using exogenous ketone supplements on a keto diet:
- Faster onset of ketosis - ketones are available right away
- Increased blood ketone levels
- Heightened mental and physical performance
- Reduced keto flu symptoms
- Improved athletic performance
- Enhanced weight loss results
However, more research is still needed to fully verify these potential benefits in humans. Always consult your health provider before using exogenous supplements.
Types of Exogenous Ketone Supplements
There are three main types of exogenous ketone supplements:
- Ketone salts - Contain beta hydroxybutyrate (BHB) bound to mineral salts like sodium, calcium or potassium.
- Ketone esters - Contain raw BHB not bound to any salt. More potent but often more expensive.
- MCT oils - Medium chain triglycerides that the body can convert to ketones. Less effective than ketone salts and esters.
When to Take Ketone Supplements
Exogenous ketones are generally taken:
- In the early stages of keto to hasten the shift into ketosis
- Pre-workout for increased energy and athletic ability
- When following a targeted ketogenic diet that incorporates carb cycling
- To minimize symptoms of the "keto flu"
- To maintain blood ketone levels after consuming more carbs than usual
Keto Activate Powder by Ancient Nutrition
Keto Activate is an exogenous ketone supplement made by Ancient Nutrition that contains magnesium beta-hydroxybutyrate (MgBHB) salts. It is designed to support improved mental and physical performance, faster weight loss, and other benefits of ketosis.
Key Ingredients
Keto Activate contains three main active ingredients:
- Magnesium Beta-Hydroxybutyrate - Provides exogenous ketones to help induce ketosis. May boost energy, mental clarity and athletic ability.
- Medium Chain Triglycerides - MCT oil that can be converted into ketones by the liver. Also aids fat burning.
- Sodium Beta-Hydroxybutyrate - Another form of exogenous ketones that helps achieve ketosis quickly.
Benefits and Effects
According to Ancient Nutrition, benefits of Keto Activate powder may include:
- Stimulating ketone production
- Reaching ketosis faster
- Providing sustained energy and mental clarity
- Controlling hunger and cravings
- Supporting fat burning for weight loss
- Enhancing athletic and cognitive performance
- Regulating blood sugar levels
Taste, Dosage and Mixing
Keto Activate comes in chocolate and vanilla-almond flavors. Most users describe the taste as mild, creamy and slightly sweet.
The recommended dosage is 1 scoop (10g) per day mixed into 8-12 oz of water, coconut milk or nut milk. It can be taken before exercise or in the morning, afternoon or evening. Many users stack it with MCT oil powder for enhanced effects.
Potential Side Effects of Exogenous Ketone Supplements
While generally safe for healthy adults, exogenous ketone supplements may cause some minor side effects, especially at higher doses. Potential side effects can include:
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Heart palpitations
- Hypoglycemia
Side effects may be more common with ketone salts than ketone esters since the excess minerals can cause gastrointestinal distress. Staying hydrated and reducing dosage can help minimize side effects.
Safety Precautions
Here are some important precautions to consider with exogenous ketone supplements:
- Not recommended for type 1 diabetics without medical guidance
- People with kidney disease, gallbladder problems or electrolyte imbalances should consult a doctor first
- Can potentially lower blood sugar too much
- Start with a low dose and work up slowly
- May prolong keto adaptation and fat burning
- Not a replacement for the keto diet itself
Children, pregnant women, and people taking medications should speak to their healthcare provider before using exogenous ketones. Stop use if any severe side effects develop.
Additional Tips for Success with Keto Activate
Here are some additional recommendations for optimal results with Keto Activate powder:
- Follow a well-formulated low carb, high fat ketogenic diet
- Test blood ketone levels to monitor your progress
- Pair with MCT oil or coconut oil for energy and cognition
- Exercise for increased fat burning effects
- Stay very hydrated - add electrolytes if needed
- Consider a targeted keto approach if training hard
- Use for no longer than 12 weeks consecutively
While Keto Activate can accelerate ketosis, it is not a replacement for the ketogenic diet itself. Work closely with your healthcare provider and stick to keto guidelines for best success.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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