10 Signs That You Are Shifting From Burning Glucose To Fat

Ketogenic diets, or “keto” for short, have become increasingly popular in recent years. This style of eating is designed to put your body in a state of nutritional ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. This shift can bring about various benefits, such as weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and increased energy levels.

How does the keto diet work?

The keto diet works by forcing your body to burn fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. When you consume carbohydrates, your body converts them into glucose, which is used as fuel for energy. However, when you limit carbohydrates, your body has to find another source of fuel. In the absence of glucose, your body starts to break down stored fat into ketones, which are then used for energy.  Some studies even suggest that the brain may actually function better on ketones than on glucose.

Ketones provide a more stable source of energy than glucose, which can help improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog. Additionally, the keto diet has been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can help protect against cognitive decline.

10 Signs Your Body Is Shifting to Burning Fat:

1. Muscle/joint pain:

   As your body transitions to a state of ketosis, you may experience muscle and joint pain. This is because your body is breaking down glycogen, which is stored in your muscles, to use as fuel. This process can lead to temporary discomfort and inflammation in the muscles and joints.

2. Mood swings:

   Shifting from burning carbs to fat can also impact your mood. Many people report feeling irritable, moody, or even depressed during the transition period. This is due to fluctuations in hormone levels and changes in neurotransmitter activity.

3. Fatigue:

   Another common sign of the transition to fat-burning is increased fatigue. Your body is used to using carbohydrates as its primary fuel source, and it takes time for your body to adapt to using fat instead. During this period, you may feel more tired than usual, and you may find it harder to complete your usual daily activities. However, this fatigue should improve as your body adjusts to burning fat for energy.

4. Headaches:

   As your body transitions to burning fat for fuel, you may experience headaches. These headaches are often caused by dehydration, which can occur when your body is flushing out excess ketones. It’s important to stay hydrated during this period to avoid headaches and other symptoms.

5. Intense food or sugar cravings:

   Many people experience intense food or sugar cravings during the transition to a fat-burning state. This is because your body is used to relying on carbohydrates for energy, and it may take time to adjust to burning fat instead. To manage these cravings, try eating small, frequent meals that are high in fat and protein.

6. Anxiety:

   Some people may experience feelings of anxiety during the transition to a fat-burning state. This is due to changes in hormone levels and neurotransmitter activity. To manage anxiety, try practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

7. Flu-like symptoms:

   It’s common to experience flu-like symptoms during the transition to a fat-burning state. These symptoms may include headaches, muscle aches, nausea, and fatigue. This is often referred to as the “keto flu” and is a temporary side effect of the transition period.

8. Brain fog:

   As your body adjusts to using fat for fuel, you may experience brain fog or difficulty concentrating. This is because your brain is used to using glucose for energy, and it takes time to adapt to using ketones instead. To manage brain fog, try getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet.

9. Skin flare-ups:

   Some people may experience skin flare-ups or acne during the transition period. This is due to changes in hormone levels and can be managed with a proper skincare routine.

10. Gut issues:

    As your body adjusts to using fat for fuel, you may also experience gut issues such as constipation, diarrhea, or bloating. This is often due to changes in the types of foods you are eating and can be managed by eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated.

Conclusion

While the transition to a fat-burning state can come with temporary side effects, these can be managed with proper nutrition, hydration, and electrolyte supplementation. As with any dietary change, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting the keto diet, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

Overall, the keto diet can be a powerful tool for improving health and wellness, especially for those looking to lose weight, regulate blood sugar, or improve cognitive function. By understanding the signs that your body is shifting from burning carbs to fat, you can make the most of this dietary approach and achieve your health goals.

Sources:

“Curious about Ketosis? Here’s the Nitty-Gritty on the Keto Diet.” Mindbodygreen, https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-is-the-keto-diet-how-do-you-do-it#mbg-4BGuCQGtn.

Ketogenic Diet – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499830/.

“These Signs Can Tell You the Keto Diet Is Working for You without a Blood Test.” Women’s Health, 10 Oct. 2022, https://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/a19642999/signs-of-ketosis-and-ketosis-symptoms/.

“Impact of ketosis on appetite regulation-a review.” Deemer, Sarah E et al. Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.) vol. 77 (2020): 1-11