People trying to include Type 1 diabetes management in their lives consider ketone testing. Regular ketone testing helps prevent short-term health complications, like ketoacidosis, from occurring. When an individual suffers from Type 1 diabetes, the doctor prescribes ketone testing kits and supplies so that he/she is aware of the health condition. When patients are aware of their health conditions, using blood ketone test strips, instant medical attention can be engaged. People with diabetes, mainly those dependent on insulin, must take note of their ketones and prevent fatal health complications.

When to Test for Ketone Levels?

People who are diabetic patients and those dependent on insulin must take note of their ketone levels in the following situations.

  •   In case the blood glucose level of the patient has repeatedly shown levels over 13 mmol/l or 230 mg/dl.
  •   If the blood glucose level is consistently over 17mmolo/l or 300 mg/dl.
  •   If an individual is not well and shows symptoms and signs of ketoacidosis.

Blood Versus Urine Testing

The most accurate way for ketone testing is via blood. One can find different blood glucose meters in the market that measures blood ketone levels along with blood glucose levels. It is recommended to get one such unit so that a patient can keep a tap on his/her ketone level regularly at home. When dependent on insulin, it is always better to consult the doctor for extra caution. Apart from blood ketone testing, urine is also used for testing. Studies show that testing urine for ketone levels is not as accurate as blood ketone testing. This is one of the reasons why doctors prescribe blood ketone test strips.

Procedure for Blood Ketone Testing

Similar to blood sugar or glucose testing, a blood ketone test is also carried out.

  •   The patient needs to put the blood ketone strip into the unit or meter
  •   Using the lancing device, one needs to prick his/her finger
  •   The third step includes allowing the blood into the ketone strip and waiting for the results to show
  •   It is highly recommended that the test strips and lancet must be discarded safely

It is important to note that only a selected number of blood glucose meters offer ketone testing. Hence, it is suggested to pick a suitable testing unit.

Ketone Level Testing for Weight Loss

Some people are also known to utilize blood ketone testing to assess whether their bodies are breaking down adequate fat. Higher levels of ketone in the blood indicate a greater possibility of weight loss. Though people are using ketone testing for weight loss, ketone testing strips are not suggested by NHS for this specific purpose. Moreover, doctors refrain from prescribing it either for weight loss.

Conclusion

People with diabetes, especially those on insulin, shouldn’t have high ketone levels. High ketone levels in the blood are considered dangerous for complicating the functioning of body organs. Henceforth, such individuals must keep an eye on ketone levels regularly. Thanks to the easy and cost-effective accessibility of blood ketone test strips that allows people to take note of their ketone levels at home.