How come I'm still peeing ketones?

#1

So I started being in ketosis in September with low carb and got strict about my keto macros in January. But it’s May and I am still turning the urine sticks purple! On the blood meter I come in around .5 to 1.8 most of the time.

I know keto sticks can read negative even if you are still in ketosis, but a positive is a positive. I asked Dr. Andreas Eenfeldt (Diet Doctor) and he agreed.

My question is what does it mean that I haven’t stopped excreting ketones in the urine? Does this mean I am in ketosis but still not fat-adapted?

(G. Andrew Duthie) #2

Just speculation, but it could also mean that you’re making more ketones than you currently need for fuel.

If you’re keeping carbs below 20g per day, and not overeating protein, then the only other source of glucose would be from the liver, so it’d be pretty unusual for you to not be using fat for the parts of the body that can use that substrate.

(Mike W.) #3

You could also just be dehydrated.

(Allie) #4

I’ve been keto for two years and adapted for about 18 months, but still get a positive with pee sticks. Don’t stress it. Just judge it by how you feel and how our body is reacting.

#5

Thanks for all the replies… I am keeping carbs below 20, keeping protein around 60 grams, I guess it sounds like nothing to worry about.

(But I will try to hydrate more anyway!)

I just saw a video by Keto with Casey, and like @Shortstuff, Casey said she and her husband are 3 years into keto and still get positives on the sticks.

(Jennie) #6

I’ve heard it said too that the urine excretes the unused ketones so it’s not the best measure for what you are using, just that they are in your system. I’ve also heard that it only takes a few weeks (3-6?) to get fat adapted, so you sound good! :slight_smile:

#7

Hmmm… so maybe I just make LOTS of ketones since I excrete so much?