Ketogenezi

Ketogenezi is the metabolic process by which the body produces ketones. This occurs when glucose levels are low, such as during prolonged fasting or a ketogenic diet. In these situations, the body turns to fat for energy. Fat is broken down into fatty acids, which are then converted in the liver into ketone bodies. The primary ketone bodies are acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and acetone.

These ketone bodies can then be used as an alternative fuel source by various tissues, including the brain, which cannot directly use fatty acids. The brain can utilize up to 70% of its energy from ketones when glucose is scarce. This adaptation is crucial for survival during periods of food scarcity.

Ketogenesis is regulated by hormonal signals. Low insulin levels, often seen during fasting or carbohydrate restriction, promote ketogenesis. Conversely, high insulin levels inhibit it. Glucagon, another hormone, plays a role in stimulating the breakdown of fat to provide substrates for ketone production.

While beneficial in certain contexts, sustained high levels of ketones can lead to a condition called ketoacidosis, particularly in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Ketoacidosis is a serious medical emergency. In healthy individuals, the body has mechanisms to regulate ketone production and prevent dangerous levels from accumulating.