Hello, I'm Dr. Emily Carter, a nephrologist specializing in kidney health. I've been practicing for over 15 years and have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating kidney-related issues.

Let's discuss ketones and their potential impact on the kidneys.

What are Ketones?

Ketones are byproducts of fat breakdown in the body. They're produced when the body doesn't have enough glucose (sugar) for energy, often during periods of **starvation, fasting, or a very low-carb diet**.

How do Ketones affect the Kidneys?

* Ketoacidosis: In cases of uncontrolled diabetes, the body can produce excessive amounts of ketones, leading to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This is a serious medical condition where the blood becomes acidic due to high ketone levels. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's acid-base balance. In DKA, the kidneys struggle to eliminate the excess acid, potentially leading to kidney failure.

* Dehydration: A ketogenic diet or prolonged fasting can lead to dehydration as the body loses water through increased urination. This can put a strain on the kidneys as they work harder to filter waste and regulate fluid balance.

* Kidney Stones: While the evidence is limited, some studies suggest that high-protein diets, which often contribute to increased ketone production, might be associated with a slightly increased risk of kidney stones.

* Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): Some studies have reported a temporary decrease in GFR (a measure of kidney function) during ketogenic diets. However, this decrease appears to be mild and reversible.

Key Points to Remember:

* **Ketones themselves aren't inherently harmful to the kidneys.** They're a natural byproduct of metabolism.
* **The main concern lies in the potential for ketoacidosis**, especially in people with diabetes who don't manage their condition effectively.
* Dehydration can negatively impact kidney function, regardless of the reason.
* Prolonged high-protein diets might contribute to kidney stone formation but require further research.

In Conclusion:

While ketones can affect the kidneys in certain circumstances, they are not inherently harmful. It's essential to manage diabetes carefully to prevent ketoacidosis and stay well-hydrated, especially when following a ketogenic diet or fasting. If you have concerns about the potential impact of ketones on your kidneys, consult a nephrologist like myself for personalized advice and monitoring.
read more >>

The BHB-salt portion should simply be absorbed into the blood as ketones. ... Exogenous ketone scientific literature does not suggest that either kidney or liver function is negatively affected by ketosis. The major role of the kidneys when it comes to ketones is to excrete excess ketones in the urine.read more >>