Link to my Keto Mojo affiliate for glucose and ketone meters: shop.keto-mojo.com/?rfsn=6731996.bf7f46&.bf7f46 Labs discussed in this video: Let’s start with the basics • Complete Blood Count (CBC • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP • Lipid Panel • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone • Vitamin D • Hemoglobin A1c • Urinalysis The Metabolic Labs You REALLY Need 1. Uric Acid 2. Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT 3. Fasting Insulin (HOMA-IR 4. C-Peptide 5. High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP 6. Advanced Iron Panel: total iron, transferrin, and saturation 7. LDL Particle Size 8. Apolipoprotein B/A Ratio 9. Detailed Thyroid Testing: Include free T4, free T3, reverse T3, and thyroid antibody Bonus Labs for the Optimal Enthusiast 1. Ketone Levels and Diabetic Ketone Index (DKI) 2. Carnitine Levels 3. Homocysteine 4. Lipoprotein(1) Additional metabolic labs suggested by YOU but endorsed by me: 1. Fasting cortisol 2. Sedimentation rate Where to Get These Labs and What Studies Show Own your own labs link: ownyourlabs.com/ Scientific studies back many of these labs: • Fasting insulin’s role in predicting diabetes: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9323856/ • TG/HDL ratio and cardiovascular risk: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2664115/ • LDL particle size and heart disease risk: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2720529/
Right on!! I have no words to thank u enough for doing something other influencers arent doing. U solved many confusions regarding labs especially when people doing keto and carnivore keep doing it wothout knowing what its doing to ur body, one way or another. I also learned about lipoprotein small particle. Great job doc, as now people have control over sickness before ot starts. My deepest gratitude for ur lectures, especially this one❤❤❤
Thank you for this information. I have upcoming labs. I have been having issues with energy. I actually don't know what labs I'm going to have as the nurse caught me off guard when she called. I know a few I asked for, but not sure what doctor will add.
Low energy can stem from many underlying issues, so it’s a good idea to work with your doctor to investigate thoroughly. Here’s a brief list of labs that can provide valuable insights: Thyroid Function: TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3 Thyroid antibodies (TPO, TG-Ab) Nutrient Levels: Vitamin D (25-OH) Vitamin B12 and Folate Iron Panel (Iron, Ferritin, TIBC, Saturation) Magnesium (RBC Magnesium is ideal) Metabolic Markers: Fasting Insulin and Glucose Hemoglobin A1c Lipid Panel (for overall metabolic health) Adrenal Function: Cortisol (AM blood draw or salivary panel) Inflammatory Markers: C-reactive protein (CRP) Homocysteine Other Hormones (if indicated): Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone DHEA-S Good luck!!!
@DrTonyHampton i know i have several of these labs ordered, but missing a few of them. Did screen shots, so I didn't forget to ask for additional before next Wednesday. I do know iodine has helped, but off of it until labs or done. Don't know if it's in my head, but making my legs feel weaker, which I have issues with anyway, due to back surgery.
Loving your content; thank you - if you ever "feel like it", please give your thoughts about insulin Suppression. Many of us in the Keto/Carnivore space show ultra-low levels of C-Peptide, but perfect glucose levels.
Great information. I have been tracking my GKI for almost 4 weeks now and have made an important observation. I have been getting consistent glucose readings of 80’s to 90’s the 4 times a day I check the GKI. I drink water only in the morning to avoid side effects similar to dumping syndrome (I do OMAD). One day I missed my water goal (2 liters) so I decided to make it up later on in the afternoon. My last half liter caused my glucose to go to 119 instead of my usual 96. I tested no drinking next day after meal, got expected readings. Followed by a day of drinking hours after meal high reading again. Never did I expect something as innocuous as water would cause such a reaction. I would be happy to share my keto mojo readings with you to help corroborate what I’m stating.
What a great video doctor! So few medical practitioners understand this information. My last labs on carnivore were good except for elevated Homocostine (14.3) with reasonable B12 (500). Would you have any suggestions how to lower it? Thank you!
Nutritional Support Add to the B12 the following • Folate (Vitamin B9): Ensure adequate intake of folate, especially in its active form (methylfolate), as it helps convert homocysteine into methionine. • Supplementation: 400-800 mcg of methylfolate may be beneficial if dietary intake is insufficient or if there is an MTHFR mutation. • Vitamin B6: Involved in converting homocysteine to cysteine via the transsulfuration pathway. • Food sources: Poultry, fish, potatoes, and bananas. • Supplementation: 25-50 mg pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (P5P), the active form of B6.
@@DrTonyHampton Thank you Doctor! Would B-complex, containing these vitamins, suffice or is it best to supplement with individual vitamins? I have also been recommended 3g of Coline daily.
Thanks for all the great info dr hampton! I meed some help... my wife and i are fostering a newborn who is african american and we are caucasian. The hospital sent us home with some lotion for her skin and it is petroleum based. Can anyone give me any suggestions for a clean lotion for her? Thank you in advance!
First of all, congratulations on adopting your beautiful baby! What an incredible journey of love and commitment you’ve embarked on as a family. The fact that you’re asking about culturally appropriate skincare shows how much you care about honoring and celebrating your child’s heritage-it’s truly inspiring. When it comes to non-petroleum skincare options, African-American families have long used natural products like shea butter, coconut oil, and cocoa butter to nourish and protect skin. These not only work wonderfully but also connect to cultural traditions. Parenting is an amazing adventure, and learning about your baby’s needs, heritage, and traditions will only deepen your bond. It’s clear this child is in a home filled with love and thoughtfulness, and that’s the most important thing of all. Wishing you all the best as you grow together as a family!
@DrTonyHampton thank you for the kind words of encouragement. I knew I could count on the carnivore community to find a product I can feel confident using. It is amazing to me that such wise and busy folks will take the time to respond. Thanks again dr. Hampton!
Dr Hampton, I have been on carnivore since May 13, 2024. I stay around 70% fat 30% protein. I have gained 11 pounds, no energy and my thyroid numbers tanked even though I am on thyroid np due to thyroid cancer. So frustrated and confused. I have also been battling parasites which are not going away easily. Drs. I have been to are of NO help! Most influencers just say eat more fatty red meat but that doesn’t work for me. Any thoughts?
Thank you for sharing your experience-I can feel your frustration, and it’s completely valid. Thyroid Health and NP Thyroid: It’s concerning that your thyroid numbers have tanked despite being on NP Thyroid. Thyroid issues can be complex, especially post-cancer, as your body may have different needs. Some individuals on desiccated thyroid like NP may need adjustments in their dosage or may not convert T4 to T3 optimally. Checking free T3, reverse T3, and TSH levels could provide more clarity. Additionally, selenium and iodine status (in moderation) can impact thyroid function, though these should be monitored with guidance. Parasites: Chronic parasitic infections can drain your energy and contribute to inflammation, which may affect your weight and thyroid. Consider working with a functional medicine practitioner or an integrative doctor who can do comprehensive stool testing (e.g., GI-MAP) and provide targeted treatment, which may include antiparasitic medications or natural remedies like berberine or oregano oil. Energy and Weight Gain on Carnivore: Weight gain and low energy on carnivore can happen for several reasons: Underlying metabolic dysfunction: Even with a 70/30 fat-to-protein ratio, your body may still be struggling with insulin resistance or stress-related cortisol dysregulation, affecting energy and weight. Calorie intake: Ensure you’re not overeating, as fat is very calorie-dense. Some people need to adjust fat intake for their specific goals. Nutrient imbalances: Deficiencies in magnesium, potassium, or sodium could be contributing to your symptoms, especially if you’re not salting your food adequately. Individualized Adjustments: If fatty red meat alone isn’t working, consider tailoring your approach: Experiment with leaner proteins for a short period and adjust fat levels to see how you feel. Add organ meats or seafood to diversify nutrient intake. Test for food sensitivities; some may react poorly to ruminant fats. Switching to poultry or fish for a while could be helpful. Stress Management and Sleep: Chronic stress and poor sleep can wreak havoc on both energy and thyroid function. Practices like mindfulness, light movement, or even targeted adaptogens (like ashwagandha, if tolerated) might support your recovery. Work With Specialists: It’s disappointing that your current doctors haven’t been helpful, but if possible, I’d encourage you to seek a second opinion from a practitioner experienced in thyroid cancer recovery, metabolic health, and chronic infections like a functional medicine doc.
How can ferritin and hemoglobin very good, B12 high/good MCV high, and red blood cells a bit low? Could it be that if red blood cells are large,you do not need many of them?
Possible Explanations: It could be related to diet or medication (some drugs, like alcohol, can influence RBC size). If you have an MTHFR mutation, it might affect folate metabolism, which contributes to large RBCs despite adequate B12. Rarely, it could point to bone marrow or metabolic changes that are worth exploring further if other symptoms are present. Consider discussing this with your healthcare provider
@@DrTonyHampton My doctor in Thailand gave me the painful bone marrow test saying I had unusual proteins in my blood, Maybe he thought I had leukemia( that was over 20 years ago), But I felt fine and did not have leukemia. My homocysteine normal.
Hey doc, have a question. Is fasting with carnivore necessary as I know in fasting, body uses up stored glycogen in liver and muscles and once stored glycogen is used up then body uses stored fat for energy. Or carnivore alone will do the job without intermittent fasting
Fasting isn’t necessary on a carnivore diet, but many find it happens naturally due to increased satiety. If you’re thriving on carnivore without fasting, that’s perfectly fine! Listen to your body and focus on what works best for your health and lifestyle.
@DrTonyHampton I Agee doc as I noticed I don't feel like eating too frequently. The fatty meats in my diet kills my hunger for most of the day. I appreciate it
It's my understanding that when testing for ketones the levels drop off once you're in heavy ketosis because you're utilizing them. I found this to be the case using urinary test strips. At first my levels were really high then they dropped off once I was in several days of heavy ketosis. Am I understanding this correctly?
Great question! You’re absolutely on the right track about why ketone levels on urine strips can change over time. Here’s a breakdown to clarify: Early Ketosis and Urine Ketones: When you first transition to a ketogenic diet, your body starts producing ketones (like acetoacetate) as it shifts from burning glucose to burning fat for fuel. Early on, your cells aren’t efficient at using ketones yet, so the excess is excreted in your urine. This is why urine strips show higher levels initially. Adaptation to Ketosis: As you remain in ketosis, your body becomes better at utilizing ketones for energy-especially beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which circulates in the blood. Over time, fewer ketones are wasted, and urine strip readings naturally drop. This doesn’t mean you’re no longer in ketosis; it just reflects your body’s efficiency in using ketones rather than excreting them. Limitations of Urine Strips: Urine strips measure acetoacetate, not BHB (the primary ketone used for energy). As your body adapts, blood ketone testing or breath meters are more reliable if you want to monitor ketone levels. Do You Need to Measure Ketones? For many, how you feel (e.g., improved energy, reduced hunger, mental clarity) is a better gauge of whether you’re in ketosis than chasing specific ketone numbers. So yes, your understanding is correct-lower readings on urine strips often indicate improved ketone utilization. You’re doing great, and this is a sign your body is adapting!
@@DrTonyHamptonThank you so much for this explanation! Ive been on carnivore for 9 months and will never go back to SAD. I had heard something about the limitation of the urine tests. That all makes sense.
Once you get lab results and present them to your doctor who does nothing, how do you get help? My health insurance is dictated by the medical industrial bureaucratic complex. All they want to do is vaccines, Rx, and monitor. All the standard tests results are in the normal range, however, as you're sitting there 300+ pounds, swollen legs, puffy face, dark circles under your eyes, normal TSH etc, they do nothing. You have to beg for thyroid antibody tests and when the results come back high, they still do nothing because TSH is normal. They tell you to move more and eat less, let's put you on a statin, ridiculous advice....It is so frustrating....
That's an interesting observation! While water itself doesn’t contain calories or carbohydrates to directly affect blood glucose, there could be indirect factors at play. For example: Digestive Timing: Drinking water might accelerate the digestion and absorption of food in the small intestine, potentially leading to faster glucose absorption from a recent meal. Hormonal Responses: The act of drinking water can sometimes stimulate hormonal changes (like cortisol release) that may temporarily impact glucose levels. This is a surprising development for sure
We are very similar. I have been carnivore for many years, strict carnivore as we know it today since 2017. My A1C has come back 5.9 for a few years now. The 3 times I tested my fasting glucose the readings were 2.6, 1.7 and 2.2. Maybe you can experiment with my new protocol I have been using for the last few months. I do all my drinking before I eat. E.g. from waking until one hour before I eat. Usually adds up to a couple of liters of water. I eat my OMAD about 11:30 am and don’t drink again until about 11:00pm when I get home from work. I may have a large cup of water if thirsty. I used keto mojo to test my glucose and ketones. Sample numbers are usually around the following: 6am glucose 83, ketones 0.7, 11:00 am glucose 78, ketones 0.5, 6:00pm glucose 93, ketones 2.2 and 11:00pm glucose 72, ketones 1.1.
Link to my Keto Mojo affiliate for glucose and ketone meters: shop.keto-mojo.com/?rfsn=6731996.bf7f46&.bf7f46
Labs discussed in this video:
Let’s start with the basics
• Complete Blood Count (CBC
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP
• Lipid Panel
• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
• Vitamin D
• Hemoglobin A1c
• Urinalysis
The Metabolic Labs You REALLY Need
1. Uric Acid
2. Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT
3. Fasting Insulin (HOMA-IR
4. C-Peptide
5. High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP
6. Advanced Iron Panel: total iron, transferrin, and saturation
7. LDL Particle Size
8. Apolipoprotein B/A Ratio
9. Detailed Thyroid Testing: Include free T4, free T3, reverse T3, and thyroid antibody
Bonus Labs for the Optimal Enthusiast
1. Ketone Levels and Diabetic Ketone Index (DKI)
2. Carnitine Levels
3. Homocysteine
4. Lipoprotein(1)
Additional metabolic labs suggested by YOU but endorsed by me:
1. Fasting cortisol
2. Sedimentation rate
Where to Get These Labs and What Studies Show
Own your own labs link: ownyourlabs.com/
Scientific studies back many of these labs:
• Fasting insulin’s role in predicting diabetes: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9323856/
• TG/HDL ratio and cardiovascular risk: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2664115/
• LDL particle size and heart disease risk: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2720529/
Keep doing what you're doing and Thank you. It's a breath of fresh air hearing and seeing this information come from someone who looks like me 💜😊
I appreciate that! I’m shocked at how few people of color are teaching the message of metabolic health.
We have a lot of work to do 😞
Thanks Dr Hampton ❤
Thanks and happy holidays my friend
@DrTonyHampton Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🫶
Thanks Dr. T!
My pleasure!
Right on!!
I have no words to thank u enough for doing something other influencers arent doing. U solved many confusions regarding labs especially when people doing keto and carnivore keep doing it wothout knowing what its doing to ur body, one way or another. I also learned about lipoprotein small particle. Great job doc, as now people have control over sickness before ot starts. My deepest gratitude for ur lectures, especially this one❤❤❤
❤️ coming your way
I’m THANKFUL for this video on Thanksgiving. Thank you, Doc!
That was my hope ❤️
Amazing and welcome to keto and carnivore diet 🙂
Yes! Thank you!
I like and share all ur lectures. I share them to people so everybody can learn from u and improve their health. God Bless u❤
That’s a blessing
Thank you
Thank you
Welcome!
Thank you, Dr. H. Maybe add fasting cortisol and sedimentation rate?
Totally agree. I will add an additional section in the pinned comments for suggested labs from viewers like you
@DrTonyHampton Happy Thanksgiving, Dr. H. Thx for all you do for health and wellness.
Thank you for this information. I have upcoming labs. I have been having issues with energy. I actually don't know what labs I'm going to have as the nurse caught me off guard when she called. I know a few I asked for, but not sure what doctor will add.
Low energy can stem from many underlying issues, so it’s a good idea to work with your doctor to investigate thoroughly. Here’s a brief list of labs that can provide valuable insights:
Thyroid Function:
TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3
Thyroid antibodies (TPO, TG-Ab)
Nutrient Levels:
Vitamin D (25-OH)
Vitamin B12 and Folate
Iron Panel (Iron, Ferritin, TIBC, Saturation)
Magnesium (RBC Magnesium is ideal)
Metabolic Markers:
Fasting Insulin and Glucose
Hemoglobin A1c
Lipid Panel (for overall metabolic health)
Adrenal Function:
Cortisol (AM blood draw or salivary panel)
Inflammatory Markers:
C-reactive protein (CRP)
Homocysteine
Other Hormones (if indicated):
Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone
DHEA-S
Good luck!!!
@DrTonyHampton i know i have several of these labs ordered, but missing a few of them. Did screen shots, so I didn't forget to ask for additional before next Wednesday. I do know iodine has helped, but off of it until labs or done. Don't know if it's in my head, but making my legs feel weaker, which I have issues with anyway, due to back surgery.
Loving your content; thank you - if you ever "feel like it", please give your thoughts about insulin Suppression. Many of us in the Keto/Carnivore space show ultra-low levels of C-Peptide, but perfect glucose levels.
Great info. I was just getting ready to order some labs, so this is timely.
Great info; thanks!
You bet!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours great info you're the best
Happy holidays!
Great information. I have been tracking my GKI for almost 4 weeks now and have made an important observation. I have been getting consistent glucose readings of 80’s to 90’s the 4 times a day I check the GKI. I drink water only in the morning to avoid side effects similar to dumping syndrome (I do OMAD). One day I missed my water goal (2 liters) so I decided to make it up later on in the afternoon. My last half liter caused my glucose to go to 119 instead of my usual 96. I tested no drinking next day after meal, got expected readings. Followed by a day of drinking hours after meal high reading again. Never did I expect something as innocuous as water would cause such a reaction. I would be happy to share my keto mojo readings with you to help corroborate what I’m stating.
Great stuff
Water raised your glucose level?
What a great video doctor! So few medical practitioners understand this information. My last labs on carnivore were good except for elevated Homocostine (14.3) with reasonable B12 (500). Would you have any suggestions how to lower it? Thank you!
Nutritional Support
Add to the B12 the following
• Folate (Vitamin B9): Ensure adequate intake of folate, especially in its active form (methylfolate), as it helps convert homocysteine into methionine.
• Supplementation: 400-800 mcg of methylfolate may be beneficial if dietary intake is insufficient or if there is an MTHFR mutation.
• Vitamin B6: Involved in converting homocysteine to cysteine via the transsulfuration pathway.
• Food sources: Poultry, fish, potatoes, and bananas.
• Supplementation: 25-50 mg pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (P5P), the active form of B6.
@@DrTonyHampton Thank you Doctor! Would B-complex, containing these vitamins, suffice or is it best to supplement with individual vitamins? I have also been recommended 3g of Coline daily.
Thanks for all the great info dr hampton! I meed some help... my wife and i are fostering a newborn who is african american and we are caucasian. The hospital sent us home with some lotion for her skin and it is petroleum based. Can anyone give me any suggestions for a clean lotion for her? Thank you in advance!
First of all, congratulations on adopting your beautiful baby! What an incredible journey of love and commitment you’ve embarked on as a family. The fact that you’re asking about culturally appropriate skincare shows how much you care about honoring and celebrating your child’s heritage-it’s truly inspiring.
When it comes to non-petroleum skincare options, African-American families have long used natural products like shea butter, coconut oil, and cocoa butter to nourish and protect skin. These not only work wonderfully but also connect to cultural traditions.
Parenting is an amazing adventure, and learning about your baby’s needs, heritage, and traditions will only deepen your bond. It’s clear this child is in a home filled with love and thoughtfulness, and that’s the most important thing of all. Wishing you all the best as you grow together as a family!
@DrTonyHampton thank you for the kind words of encouragement. I knew I could count on the carnivore community to find a product I can feel confident using. It is amazing to me that such wise and busy folks will take the time to respond. Thanks again dr. Hampton!
Dr Hampton, I have been on carnivore since May 13, 2024. I stay around 70% fat 30% protein. I have gained 11 pounds, no energy and my thyroid numbers tanked even though I am on thyroid np due to thyroid cancer. So frustrated and confused.
I have also been battling parasites which are not going away easily. Drs. I have been to are of NO help!
Most influencers just say eat more fatty red meat but that doesn’t work for me. Any thoughts?
As far as parasites and a prophylaxis for future cancer prevention I would look into ivermectin.
Thank you for sharing your experience-I can feel your frustration, and it’s completely valid.
Thyroid Health and NP Thyroid:
It’s concerning that your thyroid numbers have tanked despite being on NP Thyroid. Thyroid issues can be complex, especially post-cancer, as your body may have different needs. Some individuals on desiccated thyroid like NP may need adjustments in their dosage or may not convert T4 to T3 optimally. Checking free T3, reverse T3, and TSH levels could provide more clarity. Additionally, selenium and iodine status (in moderation) can impact thyroid function, though these should be monitored with guidance.
Parasites:
Chronic parasitic infections can drain your energy and contribute to inflammation, which may affect your weight and thyroid. Consider working with a functional medicine practitioner or an integrative doctor who can do comprehensive stool testing (e.g., GI-MAP) and provide targeted treatment, which may include antiparasitic medications or natural remedies like berberine or oregano oil.
Energy and Weight Gain on Carnivore:
Weight gain and low energy on carnivore can happen for several reasons:
Underlying metabolic dysfunction: Even with a 70/30 fat-to-protein ratio, your body may still be struggling with insulin resistance or stress-related cortisol dysregulation, affecting energy and weight.
Calorie intake:
Ensure you’re not overeating, as fat is very calorie-dense. Some people need to adjust fat intake for their specific goals.
Nutrient imbalances: Deficiencies in magnesium, potassium, or sodium could be contributing to your symptoms, especially if you’re not salting your food adequately.
Individualized Adjustments:
If fatty red meat alone isn’t working, consider tailoring your approach:
Experiment with leaner proteins for a short period and adjust fat levels to see how you feel.
Add organ meats or seafood to diversify nutrient intake.
Test for food sensitivities; some may react poorly to ruminant fats. Switching to poultry or fish for a while could be helpful.
Stress Management and Sleep:
Chronic stress and poor sleep can wreak havoc on both energy and thyroid function. Practices like mindfulness, light movement, or even targeted adaptogens (like ashwagandha, if tolerated) might support your recovery.
Work With Specialists:
It’s disappointing that your current doctors haven’t been helpful, but if possible, I’d encourage you to seek a second opinion from a practitioner experienced in thyroid cancer recovery, metabolic health, and chronic infections like a functional medicine doc.
How can ferritin and hemoglobin very good, B12 high/good MCV high, and red blood cells a bit low? Could it be that if red blood cells are large,you do not need many of them?
Possible Explanations:
It could be related to diet or medication (some drugs, like alcohol, can influence RBC size).
If you have an MTHFR mutation, it might affect folate metabolism, which contributes to large RBCs despite adequate B12.
Rarely, it could point to bone marrow or metabolic changes that are worth exploring further if other symptoms are present.
Consider discussing this with your healthcare provider
@@DrTonyHampton My doctor in Thailand gave me the painful bone marrow test saying I had unusual proteins in my blood, Maybe he thought I had leukemia( that was over 20 years ago), But I felt fine and did not have leukemia. My homocysteine normal.
Hey doc, have a question. Is fasting with carnivore necessary as I know in fasting, body uses up stored glycogen in liver and muscles and once stored glycogen is used up then body uses stored fat for energy. Or carnivore alone will do the job without intermittent fasting
Fasting isn’t necessary on a carnivore diet, but many find it happens naturally due to increased satiety. If you’re thriving on carnivore without fasting, that’s perfectly fine! Listen to your body and focus on what works best for your health and lifestyle.
@DrTonyHampton I Agee doc as I noticed I don't feel like eating too frequently. The fatty meats in my diet kills my hunger for most of the day. I appreciate it
It's my understanding that when testing for ketones the levels drop off once you're in heavy ketosis because you're utilizing them. I found this to be the case using urinary test strips. At first my levels were really high then they dropped off once I was in several days of heavy ketosis. Am I understanding this correctly?
Great question! You’re absolutely on the right track about why ketone levels on urine strips can change over time. Here’s a breakdown to clarify:
Early Ketosis and Urine Ketones:
When you first transition to a ketogenic diet, your body starts producing ketones (like acetoacetate) as it shifts from burning glucose to burning fat for fuel. Early on, your cells aren’t efficient at using ketones yet, so the excess is excreted in your urine. This is why urine strips show higher levels initially.
Adaptation to Ketosis:
As you remain in ketosis, your body becomes better at utilizing ketones for energy-especially beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which circulates in the blood. Over time, fewer ketones are wasted, and urine strip readings naturally drop. This doesn’t mean you’re no longer in ketosis; it just reflects your body’s efficiency in using ketones rather than excreting them.
Limitations of Urine Strips:
Urine strips measure acetoacetate, not BHB (the primary ketone used for energy). As your body adapts, blood ketone testing or breath meters are more reliable if you want to monitor ketone levels.
Do You Need to Measure Ketones?
For many, how you feel (e.g., improved energy, reduced hunger, mental clarity) is a better gauge of whether you’re in ketosis than chasing specific ketone numbers.
So yes, your understanding is correct-lower readings on urine strips often indicate improved ketone utilization. You’re doing great, and this is a sign your body is adapting!
@@DrTonyHamptonThank you so much for this explanation! Ive been on carnivore for 9 months and will never go back to SAD. I had heard something about the limitation of the urine tests. That all makes sense.
Once you get lab results and present them to your doctor who does nothing, how do you get help? My health insurance is dictated by the medical industrial bureaucratic complex. All they want to do is vaccines, Rx, and monitor. All the standard tests results are in the normal range, however, as you're sitting there 300+ pounds, swollen legs, puffy face, dark circles under your eyes, normal TSH etc, they do nothing. You have to beg for thyroid antibody tests and when the results come back high, they still do nothing because TSH is normal. They tell you to move more and eat less, let's put you on a statin, ridiculous advice....It is so frustrating....
Find a metabolically trained doc
The pharmacist I go to always is pushing the vaccine. 🙄
@@mjones1122 I push my VA Healthcare doctor to put in for labs, he doesn't even look them over until I bring it to his attention weeks later.
Can’t explain it, but it seems as the food is getting processed in the small intestine drinking water raises my glucose.
That's an interesting observation! While water itself doesn’t contain calories or carbohydrates to directly affect blood glucose, there could be indirect factors at play. For example:
Digestive Timing: Drinking water might accelerate the digestion and absorption of food in the small intestine, potentially leading to faster glucose absorption from a recent meal.
Hormonal Responses: The act of drinking water can sometimes stimulate hormonal changes (like cortisol release) that may temporarily impact glucose levels.
This is a surprising development for sure
Im strict carnivore but never go into ketosis.
Wow carnivore I'm 5.8 a1c and 2.2 fasting insulin
Apob is high
We are very similar. I have been carnivore for many years, strict carnivore as we know it today since 2017. My A1C has come back 5.9 for a few years now. The 3 times I tested my fasting glucose the readings were 2.6, 1.7 and 2.2. Maybe you can experiment with my new protocol I have been using for the last few months. I do all my drinking before I eat. E.g. from waking until one hour before I eat. Usually adds up to a couple of liters of water. I eat my OMAD about 11:30 am and don’t drink again until about 11:00pm when I get home from work. I may have a large cup of water if thirsty. I used keto mojo to test my glucose and ketones. Sample numbers are usually around the following: 6am glucose 83, ketones 0.7, 11:00 am glucose 78, ketones 0.5, 6:00pm glucose 93, ketones 2.2 and 11:00pm glucose 72, ketones 1.1.