The ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is characterized by a low intake of carbohydrates and a high intake of fats, with the goal of inducing a metabolic state known as ketosis. In this state, the body shifts from using carbohydrates as its primary fuel source to burning fat for energy. Keto gummies are marketed as supplements that support a ketogenic diet, aiding in weight loss, boosting energy and metabolism, and providing other benefits. However, it is essential to examine their composition and effectiveness.
Understanding Ketosis
Under normal circumstances, the body relies on carbohydrates for energy. However, when carbohydrate intake is severely restricted, the body enters a state of nutritional ketosis, where it begins to break down fat for energy instead. According to Katie Schwartz, a registered dietitian, it typically takes a few days of strict carbohydrate restriction to enter this state, which leads to the production of ketones that serve as fuel.
What are Keto Gummies?
Keto gummies are supplements designed to resemble regular chewable vitamins, but they are marketed to increase ketone levels in the blood. They contain ingredients like medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, which Rancourt explains can provide a quick source of energy. These supplements contain beta-hydroxybutyrate (or BHB for short). Ketone supplements come in two main forms: salts and esters.
Exogenous Ketones
Exogenous ketones are produced outside the body and consumed orally, as opposed to endogenous ketones, which are produced inside the body. Exogenous ketones come in two main forms: ketone salts and ketone esters. These forms differ in chemical structure and potency, with ketone esters generally considered more potent.
The Effectiveness of Keto Gummies
Currently, there is limited research to support the claim that keto gummies and supplements aid in weight loss. Schwartz notes that there is no credible evidence that keto gummies can reliably initiate or maintain ketosis. She adds that these products are not evidence-based and often rely on misleading marketing.
Read also: Does Keto Ignite D-BHB Work?
Safety Considerations
While being in ketosis is generally considered safe, certain individuals should avoid keto gummies. Rancourt advises that people with underlying health conditions like kidney disease or diabetes, pregnant or nursing women, children, and those on medications affecting blood sugar should not use keto gummies.
Ignite Keto and Similar Products
Several brands offer ketone supplements, including Ignite Keto, Keto Drive, and PK BHB Base. Zhou Nutrition, a Utah-based company founded in 2014, manufactures Keto Drive. Each container provides 16 servings, with approximately 5 calories per serving. All three products are gluten-free, contain zero carbs, and provide an effective dose of active ketones. However, Ignite Keto and Keto Drive contain caffeine, which may cause sleep disturbances if taken close to bedtime, while PK BHB Base is caffeine-free.
Calorie Content
Keto Drive claims to have the least amount of calories, with just 5 kcal per serving. However, this may be a labeling error, as BHB ketones contain around 4-7 calories per gram.
Taste and Flavor
Taste is an important factor when choosing ketone supplements. Some users mix ketone supplements with low-carb beverages to improve the taste. Chocolate flavor stands out as a customer favorite, with one reviewer comparing it to Orange Tang drink. One reviewer notes "The orange mango Keto Drive actually tastes really good". Another reviewer wrote “LOVED this product. It tastes delicious!".
Cost Comparison
When considering ketone products, it's important to compare the cost. Ignite Keto is the most expensive of the three, coming in at $5.88 per ounce.
Read also: Igniting Weight Loss
Premium vs. Generic Products
Generic products often don’t adhere to the same standards as premium ones. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious when deciding between premium and generic ketone products.
Read also: Risks of Ignite Keto