If a low-carb, ketogenic diet is part of your weight loss plan, you need to recognize signs that you are making progress. Here are 10 signs that your body is in ketosis.

1. Weight Loss

Weight loss studies show both short- and long-term weight loss on ketogenic diets. First, there's a rapid water weight drop, but that's just the beginning. Maintaining a calorie deficit results in dropping more pounds. It's important not only to know when you're in ketosis, but whether you're in the optimal range. Most strips simply show a positive or negative result. So, use reliable ketogenic strips and a keto test meter that measures whether your ketone levels are between 0.1 mmol/L to 8.0mmol/L. 

2. Increased Ketones in the Blood

The main indication that your ketogenic diet is working is an increase in ketones and decrease in blood sugar levels. This means that your body has started burning fat as its primary fuel source. Measuring ketones in the blood provides the most accurate ketone test results, and it's important that you use quality ketone strips for accuracy. A small pinprick on your finger takes a few seconds and yields results that help improve your weight loss efforts.

3. Increased Ketones in Breath or Urine

You can also use a breath analyzer to measure ketones in your body. It measures how much acetone is in your system. This can give you an idea of how effective your dietary changes are. However, it's not as accurate as a ketosis blood test using a monitor and ketogenic strips.

4. Reduction in Appetite or Cravings

Many people experience a reduction in appetite while on a ketogenic diet. This may be due to increased protein and vegetable consumption that leaves you feeling fuller longer. Ketones may even influence the brain to reduce hunger.

5. Increased Focus and Energy

This is one of the bonuses of a ketogenic diet. If you don't feel tired during the usual afternoon slump, your body is likely in ketosis. This makes a huge difference in your productivity. When your body is operating efficiently, you have an ample supply of fuel for brain function.

6. Bad Breath 

Bad breath is an often reported, but temporary, side effect of ketosis. It's caused by acetone that is exhaled when you breathe. A cloying fruity or unpleasant smell can accompany early stages of a ketogenic diet. Buy some gum and remember that it's a short-term symptom with a long term pay off. To confirm whether you are in ketosis or just have halitosis, measure your ketone levels with a monitor and keto test strips.

7. Toilet Issues 

Constipation and diarrhea are common symptoms when you make a sudden change to your diet. For constipation, add more fiber or magnesium to your daily intake. For diarrhea, just remember that this is a temporary effect of adding more fat to your diet. A fiber supplement can help it pass more quickly. Some lucky participants experience no change from their regular routine.

8. Short-term Fatigue

The initial switch to your dietary habits probably involves temporary weakness and fatigue. Many people quit at this stage without reaping the full benefits of a ketogenic diet. If you are worried your fatigue may have other causes, use a keto test to determine if you are in ketosis. 

9. Short-Term Decreases in Performance 

A ketogenic diet typically leads to a short-term decrease in athletic performance. After several weeks, most participants return to their normal performance levels during workouts and competitions. As in other cases when you aren't sure if you are in ketosis, a keto test can ease your mind.

10. Insomnia 

Poor sleep usually clears up after the initial stages of ketosis. If you are concerned about long-term insomnia, verify that you are in ketosis using a ketone test with accurate keto test strips.

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