How do exogenous ketones work. What are the benefits of using BHB salts. Are ketone supplements safe and effective for ketosis. How to choose the best exogenous ketone product.

What Are Exogenous Ketones?

Exogenous ketones are supplements that provide ketone bodies from an external source, as opposed to the endogenous ketones your body produces naturally during ketosis. The most common form of exogenous ketones is beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) salts.

BHB is one of the three main ketone bodies and serves as an efficient fuel source for the brain and body when glucose is limited. By consuming exogenous ketone supplements, you can quickly elevate blood ketone levels and potentially experience some of the benefits of ketosis, even without strictly following a ketogenic diet.

Types of Exogenous Ketone Supplements

• Ketone salts (BHB bound to minerals like sodium, calcium, or magnesium)
• Ketone esters (pure BHB not bound to any compounds)
• Ketone oils (medium-chain triglycerides that can boost ketone production)

How Do Exogenous Ketones Work?

When you consume exogenous ketones, they are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, raising blood ketone levels within 30-60 minutes. This mimics the metabolic state of ketosis, where your body is primarily using ketones for fuel instead of glucose.

The elevated ketone levels can provide several potential benefits:

• Increased energy and mental clarity
• Reduced hunger and cravings
• Improved athletic performance
• Enhanced fat burning
• Support for ketogenic diets

Do exogenous ketones put you into ketosis? While they can temporarily elevate blood ketone levels, exogenous ketones do not directly induce nutritional ketosis in the same way as a strict ketogenic diet. They provide a short-term boost in ketones but do not fundamentally alter your metabolism.

Benefits of Exogenous Ketone Supplements

Research on exogenous ketones is still in its early stages, but several potential benefits have been identified:

Enhanced Cognitive Function

Ketones can cross the blood-brain barrier and provide an efficient energy source for the brain. Many users report improved focus, mental clarity, and cognitive performance when using exogenous ketones.

Increased Energy and Exercise Performance

BHB can be quickly utilized for energy by the muscles and may help improve endurance and athletic performance, especially during high-intensity exercise.

Appetite Suppression

Elevated ketone levels have been shown to reduce hunger hormones and increase feelings of fullness, which may aid in weight loss efforts.

Reduced Keto Flu Symptoms

For those transitioning to a ketogenic diet, exogenous ketones may help alleviate some of the uncomfortable side effects known as “keto flu” by providing an alternative fuel source during the adaptation period.

Potential Therapeutic Applications

Ongoing research is exploring the use of exogenous ketones for various health conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer.

Choosing the Best Exogenous Ketone Supplement

When selecting an exogenous ketone product, consider the following factors:

• Form: Powders, liquids, or capsules
• Type of ketones: BHB salts, esters, or MCT oils
• Dosage: Look for products with at least 10-12g of BHB per serving
• Additional ingredients: Avoid products with artificial sweeteners or fillers
• Third-party testing: Choose brands that undergo independent quality testing
• Flavor options: Many users prefer flavored powders for better taste

Are all exogenous ketone supplements created equal? No, the quality and effectiveness can vary significantly between products. It’s essential to research brands and read reviews from reputable sources before making a purchase.

How to Use Exogenous Ketones Effectively

To maximize the benefits of exogenous ketone supplements, consider the following guidelines:

Timing

The optimal times to use exogenous ketones include:

• Morning: To boost energy and mental clarity
• Pre-workout: For improved exercise performance
• Between meals: To curb appetite and support intermittent fasting
• During keto adaptation: To ease the transition into ketosis

Dosage

Start with a lower dose (half a serving) to assess tolerance, then gradually increase to the full recommended serving size. Most products suggest 1-2 servings per day.

Combination with Diet

While exogenous ketones can be used without a strict ketogenic diet, they are most effective when combined with a low-carb or keto eating plan.

Can you take exogenous ketones every day? While daily use is generally considered safe for most people, it’s best to cycle on and off or use them strategically rather than relying on them continuously.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Exogenous ketone supplements are generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience side effects, especially when first starting:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Electrolyte imbalances

To minimize these effects, start with a lower dose and stay well-hydrated. It’s also important to be aware of the following safety considerations:

Interactions with Medications

Exogenous ketones may interact with certain medications, particularly those for diabetes or blood pressure. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you’re taking any medications.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Due to limited research, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid exogenous ketone supplements.

Underlying Health Conditions

Individuals with liver or kidney problems, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders should consult a healthcare professional before using exogenous ketones.

Are exogenous ketones safe for long-term use? While short-term use appears to be safe for most healthy individuals, the long-term effects of continuous exogenous ketone supplementation are not yet fully understood.

Exogenous Ketones vs. Other Ketogenic Supplements

Exogenous ketones are just one type of supplement used to support ketosis and enhance the benefits of a ketogenic lifestyle. It’s helpful to understand how they compare to other popular keto supplements:

MCT Oil

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are fats that can be quickly converted into ketones by the liver. While not providing direct ketones like BHB salts, MCT oil can help boost ketone production and provide a quick source of energy.

Comparison:

• Exogenous Ketones: Provide immediate ketones, faster-acting
• MCT Oil: Supports natural ketone production, may be better tolerated

Ketone Esters

Ketone esters are a more potent and faster-acting form of exogenous ketones. They are often used in research settings but are less common in commercial supplements due to their strong taste and higher cost.

Comparison:

• BHB Salts: More palatable, widely available
• Ketone Esters: More potent, faster-acting, but less pleasant taste

Keto Protein Powders

These are protein supplements formulated to be low in carbs and often contain added fats to support a ketogenic macronutrient ratio.

Comparison:

• Exogenous Ketones: Primarily for energy and ketosis support
• Keto Protein Powders: For muscle support and meal replacement on a keto diet

Which ketogenic supplement is right for you? The best choice depends on your specific goals, preferences, and how your body responds to different supplements. Many people find a combination of these products to be most effective in supporting their ketogenic lifestyle.

Incorporating Exogenous Ketones into a Ketogenic Lifestyle

While exogenous ketones can be used on their own, they are most effective when integrated into a comprehensive ketogenic approach. Here are some strategies for maximizing their benefits:

Supporting Keto Adaptation

When first transitioning to a ketogenic diet, exogenous ketones can help alleviate symptoms of “keto flu” and provide energy while your body adapts to using fat for fuel.

Enhancing Athletic Performance

For athletes following a ketogenic diet, strategic use of exogenous ketones before and during workouts can help maintain intensity and endurance.

Intermittent Fasting Support

Exogenous ketones can help extend fasting periods by providing energy and reducing hunger, making it easier to adhere to intermittent fasting protocols.

Mental Performance Boost

Many people use exogenous ketones as a “cognitive enhancer” to improve focus and mental clarity, especially during demanding work or study sessions.

Recipes and Culinary Uses

Unflavored exogenous ketone powders can be incorporated into various keto-friendly recipes, such as smoothies, fat bombs, or baked goods, to boost their ketogenic properties.

How can you tell if exogenous ketones are working for you? Monitor your energy levels, mental clarity, and ketone levels (using blood or breath tests) to assess the impact. Keep in mind that individual responses can vary, so it may take some experimentation to find the optimal usage strategy.

The Future of Exogenous Ketone Research

As interest in the ketogenic diet and its potential health benefits continues to grow, so does research into exogenous ketones. Several exciting areas of study are emerging:

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Researchers are exploring the potential neuroprotective effects of exogenous ketones in conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Metabolic Health

Studies are investigating how exogenous ketones might impact insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, and other aspects of metabolic health.

Cancer Therapy

Some early research suggests that ketones may have anti-tumor properties and could potentially enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments.

Longevity and Anti-Aging

The role of ketones in cellular health and longevity is an emerging area of interest in the scientific community.

Improved Formulations

Ongoing work is focused on developing more palatable and effective exogenous ketone supplements, including new delivery methods and combinations with other beneficial compounds.

What potential breakthroughs can we expect in exogenous ketone research? While it’s difficult to predict specific outcomes, the growing body of research suggests that we may uncover new therapeutic applications and gain a deeper understanding of how exogenous ketones affect various aspects of health and performance.

As with any emerging field of study, it’s important to approach new findings with a critical eye and wait for robust, peer-reviewed research before drawing definitive conclusions about the benefits of exogenous ketones.

In conclusion, exogenous ketone supplements offer an intriguing tool for those interested in the potential benefits of ketosis. While they are not a magic solution for weight loss or health, when used appropriately, they can support a ketogenic lifestyle and potentially enhance various aspects of physical and mental performance. As research continues to evolve, we may discover even more applications for these fascinating compounds in the realm of health and wellness.

Perfect Keto Exogenous Ketones Drink Mix (Base BHB Ketone Supplement)

When To Use

Morning

To curb your appetite during intermittent fasting.

Afternoon

To energize you through the afternoon slump.

Workout

To fuel your body with ketones.

Starting Keto

To combat keto-adaptation symptoms.

Restarting Keto

To ease your transition back into ketosis.

Introducing New, Delicious Ketone Drink Mix

We spent six months and five iterations reformulating our original Ketone Base formula to make it even better without adding any sugar, artificial ingredients, or fillers — because we’d never do that.

Perfectly Sweetened Ketone Drink With No Bitterness

We used monk fruit to give it the perfect balance of sweetness and eliminated the usual bitterness of BHB salts. The result? Delicious Exogenous Ketones that taste amazing just mixed with water.

The Ketone Drink That Gives the Energy Boost You Need

Mornings, afternoon slumps, before workouts, for mental clarity, maintaining high energy levels, and to combat keto-adaptation symptoms. Exogenous ketones act as fat fuel for your keto lifestyle.

What’s inside?

Every ingredient pulls its weight.

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a naturally occurring molecule called a ketone body. It is one of the main molecules that provides your body with energy in the absence of glucose.

Supplemental or exogenous ketones provide your body with ketosis support.

Natural Flavors are oils, oleoresins, extracts, or flavor components derived from natural sources like spices, fruits, vegetables, herbs, etc.

Monk fruit is a natural sweetener extracted from the monk fruit plant. It contains mogrosides, which contribute to the sweet flavor and may have antioxidant properties.*

Stevia is a low-calorie sugar substitute that comes from the Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) plant.

Press Reviews

“This is a type of ketone metabolite—an energy molecule. Your body forms beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) when it’s breaking down and burning fat; people in ketosis tend to have higher levels of BHB. It would be especially useful when you’re starting keto to ensure a smooth transition.”

“They have excellent supplements that really help boost energy and get you over the hump when you first get into keto. Exogenous ketones help you get over that hump. Their chocolate one, in particular, is my favorite!”

— Joe Rogan

“Trying out the Keto Diet? Here is what you need to get started.”

Recipes Using Exogenous Ketone Base

See all

Gluten-Free Keto Peach Cream Tart

Sugar-Free Strawberry Peach Margarita

Keto Salted Caramel Pudding

FAQ

No, but you will get the best results when taking them in conjunction with at least a low carb diet.

Perfect Keto Base temporarily increases blood ketones (2-3 hours) but it is not a magic supplement that puts you into ketosis long-term.

No, the ketones are slightly different.

Perfect Keto Base does not directly cause weight loss. However, it can aid in your weight loss journey by giving you the physical energy to exercise effectively and the mental energy to make great food choices.

Keto Base keeps your energy high and your cravings low.

The difference is that our Keto Base puts ketones directly into your blood stream whereas MCT Oil stimulates your body to produce ketones naturally.

Do they work, and are they safe?

The ketogenic diet, which most people call the keto diet, is a diet that is high in fat and very low in carbohydrates.

This type of diet encourages a metabolic state called ketosis, in which the body burns fat instead of carbohydrate as its primary source of energy.

The process of burning fat results in the production of fatty acid byproducts called ketones. These are the substances that the body uses for energy when carbohydrates are in short supply.

The keto diet is highly restrictive. Many people have difficulty sticking to the diet and, therefore, fail to achieve ketosis. Exogenous ketones are supplements that could help a person achieve ketosis while being slightly less strict regarding what they eat.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate the exogenous ketone supplement market. Therefore, neither they nor other regulatory agencies test or evaluate ketone supplements for safety, purity, or effectiveness.

Also, researchers are unsure whether exogenous ketones have the same effect as ketones that the body produces naturally.

In this article, we outline the effectiveness and safety of exogenous ketones.

Many health food stores sell exogenous ketones (EKs) over the counter. Several different EK types exist. These include:

Ketone esters

Ketone esters are the most potent type of EK. As a result, they may cause longer ketosis periods than other EK supplements.

However, ketone esters can be very expensive to buy, and they usually have a strong, unpleasant taste.

Ketone salts

Supplement manufacturers make ketone salts by adding artificial ketones to electrolytes, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Ketone salts are available in a variety of forms, including drinks, pills, and powders.

These particular EKs can increase electrolyte levels. Higher levels can be harmful if a person has a medical condition, such as kidney disease, that affects their ability to regulate electrolytes.

While ketone salts rapidly induce ketosis, this metabolic state does not usually last as long as it does with ketone esters.

Other similar supplements

Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) are not technically a type of EK, but they do have similar effects.

The body rapidly absorbs MCTs. Following this absorption, the liver converts the MCTs into ketones.

However, a person will not get into ketosis by taking MCTs alone. They will need to follow a ketogenic diet or take other EK supplements to induce ketosis fully.

Researchers have carried out several studies on the potential benefits of taking EKs.

EKs for ketosis

A 2017 study investigated the effects of EKs on human metabolism. Researchers asked 15 healthy participants to consume drinks that contained either ketone esters or ketone salts. Both types of EK induced a state of ketosis in the participants.

However, this study involved only a small number of people. Further research is necessary to establish the accuracy of the findings.

EKs for enhanced athletic performance

Share on PinterestTaking EKs before exercise may enhance athletic performance.

Another potential use for exogenous ketones is in athletic performance. Prolonged physical activity can result in a lack of oxygen supply to the muscles, which leads to an increase in the production of lactic acid. Excess lactic acid can make muscles feel sore and weak.

As the authors of a 2016 study note, exogenous ketones act as an alternative energy source for the body during intensive exercise. As such, they help reduce lactic acid production.

The study results suggested that exogenous ketones could improve a person’s athletic performance by about 2%. The people most likely to benefit from this increase are elite and endurance athletes.

EKs for psychiatric disorders and epilepsy

Some people follow a keto diet for reasons other than weight loss. For example, people with epilepsy have used the ketogenic diet for many years to help reduce the number and severity of seizures.

Doctors also have tested whether the diet could help minimize the symptoms of psychiatric disorders, such as:

• schizophrenia
• bipolar disorder
• anxiety

Experts believe that these disorders may be partly due to changes in metabolism that affect the brain. Examples include:

• changes in the release of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters
• increased inflammation
• abnormal glucose metabolism in the brain

Some experts theorize that the metabolism-altering effects of EKs may help treat these disorders. However, few studies have investigated this idea.

A 2019 review of the available research suggests that EKs affect levels of certain neurotransmitters within the brain, thus reducing some of the signs of psychiatric disease.

The review authors conclude that using EK supplements to help the body enter ketosis may be an effective treatment for psychiatric diseases.

Taking ketone supplements can cause extreme stomach upset in some people. This side effect can limit the number of supplements that a person can take.

Taking ketone salts also increases the risk of electrolyte imbalances. Electrolytes are vital for the conduction of electrical signals in the muscles and neurons. For example, electrolytes help the heart maintain a regular rhythm.

Some doctors are concerned that the ketogenic diet decreases blood sugar levels, potentially leading to hypoglycemia, which can make a person feel weak and lethargic. Moreover, ketone salts that contain sodium could be dangerous for people with high blood pressure. The ketogenic diet can also cause dehydration.

Share on PinterestTaking EKs while fasting may help induce ketosis.

Most keto diets encourage fasting, as going without food helps induce ketosis. Many people who follow the keto diet take EK supplements while fasting. For example, a person may take the supplements when they wake up in the morning.

Some people may take EKs before they exercise, particularly before endurance events. Taking EKs in this way may help enhance athletic performance.

A person who is new to the keto diet may experience a “keto fog” or “keto flu.” These terms refer to the feeling of being dehydrated, tired, and sluggish. Some people believe that taking exogenous ketones may reduce these initial side effects and help speed up ketosis.

Current studies show that EKs may help induce ketosis in people who desire weight loss or enhanced athletic performance.

However, it is unrealistic for a person to think that they can eat whatever they want while using EKs to maintain ketosis. Exogenous ketones are unlikely to induce or maintain ketosis alongside an unsuitable diet.

If a person is thinking of taking EKs, they should talk to a doctor first. The doctor will test the person’s electrolyte balance and assess whether the supplements are safe to use alongside any other medications that the person is taking.

Exogenous Ketones (BHB) + MCT Oil – Joe Rogan’s Shop

Ingredients: Proprietary blend of three ketone salts (Beta-hydroxybutyrate salts of Magnesium, Sodium, and Calcium) and MCT oil.

How to take: dosage 19g at a time, mix 3 teaspoons in a mug of water.

Everyone is different so take this supplement as you feel comfortable (up to 1-2 times a day).

Exogenous ketones will help keep you in ketosis even after a cheat meal, but the increase in blood ketone levels will be quite weak if you eat a huge amount of “embers” (food rich in carbohydrates). The biggest effect of this supplement will be during fasting or on a low-carb diet, as you will enter ketosis very quickly, and for a long time.

What are the benefits of exogenous ketones?

• • Improved concentration [1]
  • Increased energy and mood [2]
  • Improved athletic performance [2] 9 0025
  • Appetite suppression, which can help with weight loss, for by reducing the “hunger hormones” insulin, enteroglucagon and ghrelin [3]
  • May reduce inflammation in the body [4]
  • May improve sleep [5, 6]
  • Helps you get back into Ketosis after a carb refeed/cheat meal
  • Helps with keto flu (you’ll get back on keto much easier) 9002 6

Exogenous Ketones – What is it?

You may have heard the terms endogenous and exogenous used for ketone supplements, but what do they really mean?

Well, endogenous ketones are produced naturally in our bodies. The liver begins to produce them from fat when we enter state ketosis, and we enter it by restricting carbohydrates. The body is essentially rebuilt on other rails, instead of glucose, fats become the main source of energy. The word comes from the Greek “endo”, which means “within”.

But scientists have discovered that you can take ketones into your body from outside (orally). These are exogenous ketones, which comes from the Greek word “exo”, meaning “outside/outside”.

MCT oil – what is useful?

1. MCT oil may help promote weight loss by increasing satiety, burning energy, producing ketones, and improving gut microflora.
2. MCT oil is easily absorbed and transported throughout the body. It can be used as an instant energy source and can be converted into ketones to fuel your brain.
3. MCT oil may increase fat burning and reduce carbohydrate requirements during exercise.
4. It may also improve brain function, which may be beneficial for people with epilepsy, Alzheimer’s and autism.
5. MCT Oil contains fatty acids that have been shown to reduce the growth of yeast and bacteria. In general, MCT oil has many antimicrobial and antifungal effects.
6. MCT oil may reduce risk factors for heart disease (such as weight, cholesterol, and inflammation).
7. Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil may help with diabetes by reducing fat storage and enhancing fat burning. It can also help you control your blood sugar levels.

Ketone Salt vs Ketone Ester/Ester

Ketone esters consist of a ketone body combined with a ketone precursor.

Ketone salts consist of ketone bodies bonded to a mineral ion (often sodium, calcium, and magnesium). There are different types of ketone bodies, but ketone salts use beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB).

The main difference between these additives is in taste, esters are much more disgusting than salts.

But esters can be absorbed faster, plus it is not possible to oversaturate with minerals with them.

Possible Side Effects

Exogenous ketones are generally considered a safe and effective way to increase ketone levels, but there are rare side effects (in overdose) that include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort.

We do not recommend achieving long-term ketosis (where you take salts 5 times a day for a whole week) with ketone salts, as you can oversaturate your body with minerals. Everything needs a measure. Carefully read the picture on the composition (recommended doses for Americans * are indicated there). We always advise you to consult your doctor before taking any substance, especially if you have any chronic diseases. Is not a medicine.

How to understand that you have entered ketosis?

For optimal exogenous ketone intake, we advise you to monitor your ketone levels before, after and throughout the day. This way you will know the dosage you need. The cheapest way is the Ketogluk-1 test strips, with which you can determine the amount of ketone bodies in the urine, but the ideal way is to analyze the BHB ketones in the blood (read this article, it describes in detail the options for measuring ketosis)

Will ketone supplements (exogenous ketones) help me lose weight?

The ketogenic or keto diet is a very low carbohydrate, high fat diet.

Being on such a diet for several days, our body falls into a state of ketosis, which is characterized by an increased content of ketones in the blood and weight loss.

Ketosis – state that develops as a result of carbohydrate starvation of cells, when the body begins to break down fat for energy with the formation of a large amount of ketone bodies. This is one of the adaptive reactions to the absence of carbohydrates in food.

Wikipedia

While the keto diet can provide some benefits, it can be quite difficult to follow.

Some believe that ketone supplements can mimic ketosis and increase blood ketone levels without changing the diet.

In this article, we will discuss whether exogenous ketone supplements can help you shed extra pounds.

What happens in the body during ketosis?

When following a standard high carbohydrate diet, our body cells normally rely on glucose for fuel.

Glucose comes from eating carbohydrates in our diet, including sugars and starchy foods like bread, pasta and some vegetables.

If we limit our consumption of these foods, which is what happens with the keto diet, our body is forced to look for alternative sources of fuel.

With such a diet, our body turns towards another fuel – fat, which produces ketone bodies. Ketone bodies are formed in the process of releasing energy from the breakdown of fats.

This shift in metabolism puts the body into a state of ketosis.

Most people have experienced a semblance of this condition in a natural setting, such as during fasting or intense exercise.

The two main ketone bodies formed during ketosis are acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate. Acetone is the third, less abundant, ketone body.

These ketone bodies replace glucose as fuel and provide energy for the brain, heart and muscles.

It is believed that ketone bodies themselves may be responsible for the weight loss associated with the ketogenic diet.

Ketosis is a process in which your body produces large amounts of ketones and uses them for energy instead of glucose from carbohydrates.

What are exogenous ketone supplements?

Ketone bodies can be produced in our body (endogenously) or from a synthetic source outside our body (exogenously).

Thus, the ketones found in supplements are exogenous ketones.

These supplements only contain beta-hydroxybutyrate ketone. Another primary ketone body, acetoacetate, is not chemically stable as an additive.

There are two main forms of ketone supplements:

• Ketone salts: are ketones bound to a salt, usually sodium, potassium, calcium, or magnesium. They are most often found in powder form and are mixed with a liquid.
• Ketone esters: are ketones associated with another compound called an ester in liquid form. Ketone esters are used primarily in research and are not as readily available for purchase as ketone salts

Both forms of ketone supplements increase blood ketone levels, mimicking a state of ketosis.

In one study, supplementation of approximately 12 g (12,000 mg) of ketone salts increased blood ketones by up to 300% in participants.

For reference, most ketone supplements available contain 8-12 grams of ketones per serving.

This increase in blood ketone levels after supplementation is beneficial for people who want to go into ketosis without having to diet.

Ketone supplementation is said to offer as many benefits as following a keto diet, including weight loss.

People also take ketone supplements along with the ketogenic diet, especially at the start of the diet.

This reduces the time it takes to reach ketosis and reduces the unpleasant effects that can result from switching from a standard higher carbohydrate diet to a ketogenic diet.

Symptoms that often accompany the transition to a ketogenic diet, better known as the “keto flu,” include constipation, headache, bad breath, muscle cramps, and diarrhea.

There is limited research to suggest that ketone supplements may reduce these symptoms.

Exogenous ketone supplement increases blood ketone levels, mimicking the state of ketosis normally achieved through a ketogenic diet.

Exogenous ketones help reduce appetite

Ketone supplements have been shown to help reduce hunger, which may help you lose weight by eating less food.

In one study of 15 normal weight people, those who drank a drink containing ketone esters had a 50% reduction in appetite in the evening compared to those who consumed sugar-sweetened drinks.

This appetite-suppressing effect was attributed to lower levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin between two and four hours after drinking the ketone ester drink.

However, ketone supplements may not affect appetite in the same way as people who have eaten a meal beforehand.

Studies have found higher blood ketone levels in those who did not eat a meal before taking a ketone supplement than those who did (14, 15, 16).

And because carbohydrates are found in the morning, not after meals containing carbohydrates (13).

In other words, taking a ketone supplement after eating a carb meal should increase your carbohydrate levels (15).

SUMMARY
In one small study, exogenous ketone supplements were found to reduce appetite for over four hours, which may be associated with weight loss. However, more research is needed before ketone supplements can be recommended for appetite control.
Case against exogenous ketones for weight loss
Despite the potential appetite suppressant effects of ketone supplements, their potential weight loss benefits are unknown.

Therefore, ketone supplements cannot be recommended for weight loss at this time. In fact, some evidence suggests that they may even interfere with this.

Ketones inhibit fat breakdown
The goal of the ketogenic diet for weight loss is to obtain ketones from stored fat as an alternative fuel source.

But if your circulation levels get too high, your blood can become dangerously acidic.

If they become excessively high (12, 15, 17, 18).

In other words, the higher your blood ketone levels, the less your body produces. As a result, ketone supplements may prevent the use of fat as a fuel, at least in the short term (19, 20).

Ketones have calories
Your body can use ketones for fuel, meaning they have calories.

They contain about four calories per gram, the same number of calories as carbohydrates or protein.

One serving of exogenous ketone salts contains less than 100 calories, but you will need several servings each day.

This is because the effects of ketone supplements only last a few hours and therefore require repeated doses throughout the day to maintain ketosis (17, 21).

Not to mention they are over $3 per serving and they can get expensive (22).

SUMMARY
Ketone supplements are not ketogenic per se because they prevent your body from producing its own ketones. They are also a source of calories, which, depending on how many servings you have, may not be worth losing weight.

Side effects
Exogenous ketone supplements are generally considered safe and effective in increasing ketone body levels, but long-term effects are unknown (9).

Reported side effects are more common with ketone salts than with ketone esters and include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort (7, 17, 23).

Ketone supplements have also been reported to have a poor aftertaste (24).

Moreover, achieving ketosis with ketones is not recommended due to the high amount of minerals you ingest (11).

One serving of ketone salts provides (22):

680 mg sodium (27% DV)
320 mg magnesium (85% DV)
590 mg calcium (57% DV)
two or three hours, doubling or tripling those numbers.

Manufacturers of ketone supplements.

But while ketone supplements can help you stay in ketosis even after eating, the rise in blood ketones is much less than if you were fast or did not consume carbs (15).

SUMMARY
Side effects associated with ketone supplements range from stomach discomfort to diarrhea.