What is ketosis?
2 min read
Ketosis is a natural metabolic state where your body burns fat for fuel instead of glucose. It happens when carb intake drops low enough that glucose is no longer available — usually under 20-50 g net carbs per day.
How your body switches fuel
Normally, carbs break down into glucose, your default energy source. When carbs are scarce, the liver starts converting fat into ketone bodies — an alternative fuel your brain, heart, and muscles can all use. This fuel switch takes 2-7 days and is what 'keto adaptation' means.
How you know you are in ketosis
Ketone strips (urine or blood) can confirm it, but most people feel it: steady energy without the afternoon crash, reduced appetite, a slight metallic or fruity breath, and rapid early-week water weight loss. You do not need to test — consistency matters more than numbers.
Why it helps with fat loss
Ketosis lowers insulin dramatically. Low insulin unlocks stored body fat for energy and kills sugar cravings. Combined with a calorie deficit, this is why keto often beats conventional diets for appetite control and visceral fat reduction.
- Ketosis = your body burning fat instead of glucose
- Triggered by eating under 20-50 g net carbs per day
- Takes 2-7 days to fully adapt — stay consistent
- Lowers insulin, which unlocks stored body fat