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Real Ketones Proprietary Blend

Also known as: Exogenous ketones, Ketone supplements, BHB salts, Ketone esters, (R)-3-hydroxybutanoic acid derivatives, Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB)

Overview

Exogenous ketones, primarily in the form of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) salts or esters, are ketone bodies consumed externally to elevate blood ketone levels, mimicking the metabolic state of ketosis achieved through carbohydrate restriction or fasting. These supplements are used to induce or enhance ketosis, potentially improving athletic performance, cognitive function, and supporting metabolic health. They rapidly increase blood BHB concentrations, providing an alternative energy substrate to glucose. Research on exogenous ketones is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, though study sample sizes and methodologies vary. While some high-quality RCTs and meta-analyses support metabolic effects, evidence for performance enhancement and clinical benefits remains limited and inconsistent. Exogenous ketones are available in various forms, with BHB salts and esters being the most common.

Benefits

Exogenous ketones reliably increase blood BHB concentrations in a dose-dependent manner, as demonstrated in meta-regression analyses. Meta-analyses also indicate that they can acutely reduce blood glucose levels, potentially benefiting metabolic control. Some research suggests a potential to reduce migraine frequency, with one study showing a significant positive effect on migraine attack reduction. Additionally, there's a possibility of glycogen sparing and enhanced fat oxidation during endurance exercise, although evidence is mixed and protocol-dependent. Individuals with metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, may experience altered ketone metabolism and potential benefits from ketone supplementation. Athletes may experience acute performance or recovery benefits under specific conditions, such as co-ingestion with carbohydrates or bicarbonate, but findings remain inconsistent.

How it works

Exogenous ketones provide BHB, which crosses the blood-brain barrier and enters mitochondria to be oxidized, serving as an alternative fuel source to glucose. This process modulates energy metabolism by increasing ketone availability. Exogenous ketones influence insulin and glucose homeostasis, potentially reducing blood glucose levels. They may also affect neurotransmitter systems relevant to migraine and cognitive function. BHB interacts with mitochondrial enzymes involved in ketone oxidation and G-protein coupled receptors (e.g., HCA2), which are involved in anti-inflammatory effects. Absorption is rapid after oral ingestion, with blood BHB peaking within 30–60 minutes. Bioavailability varies by ketone form, with esters generally being more bioavailable than salts.

Side effects

Exogenous ketones are generally safe for healthy adults when used at recommended doses. Common side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea and diarrhea, reported by some users. Uncommon side effects include electrolyte imbalances due to the salt load in BHB salts. Rare side effects include the risk of hypoglycemia in susceptible individuals. Exogenous ketones may interact with diabetes medications due to their glucose-lowering effects. Caution is advised for individuals with a risk of ketoacidosis or impaired ketone metabolism. Limited data are available for pregnant or lactating women, children, or those with chronic illnesses. It's important to monitor for any adverse reactions and consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose is typically 10–12 grams of BHB salts or the equivalent to raise blood ketones to approximately 0.5–1.0 mmol/L. Optimal dosage ranges are between 10–25 grams per serving, depending on the formulation and desired ketone levels. The maximum safe dose is generally up to 50 grams per day, with higher doses increasing the risk of side effects. It is best to take exogenous ketones 30–60 minutes before exercise or as directed for therapeutic use. Ketone esters have higher bioavailability but may have a stronger taste and higher cost. Co-ingestion with carbohydrates or bicarbonate may influence absorption and effects. Adequate hydration and electrolyte balance are recommended when using exogenous ketones.

FAQs

Is it safe to use daily?

Yes, within recommended doses, but monitor for gastrointestinal symptoms and electrolyte balance. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Will it cause weight loss?

Not directly; it may modestly suppress appetite, but weight loss requires dietary control and exercise.

Does it improve exercise performance?

Evidence is mixed; it may help in some endurance contexts but not consistently across all types of exercise.

How fast do effects appear?

Blood ketone levels typically rise within 30–60 minutes after ingestion, providing a rapid source of energy.

Can it replace a ketogenic diet?

No, it raises ketones transiently but does not replicate the full metabolic adaptations of a ketogenic diet, which involves sustained carbohydrate restriction.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35380602/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple RCTs found that exogenous ketones reduce blood glucose acutely and increase blood BHB levels in a dose-dependent manner. The study highlights the potential metabolic benefits of exogenous ketone supplementation but notes heterogeneity in study designs and small sample sizes in some included studies.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10337131/ – This systematic review and meta-regression analysis demonstrated a linear dose-response relationship between BHB infusion and blood ketone levels in both healthy individuals and those with disease states. The study also found altered ketone metabolism in individuals with diabetes, suggesting potential therapeutic implications of ketone supplementation in this population. The analysis primarily focused on IV infusion studies, with less data available on oral supplementation.
https://www.ais.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1000080/36194_Sport-supplement-fact-sheets-Ketones-v4.pdf – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs involving athletes found mixed results on exercise performance with exogenous ketone supplementation. Some benefits were observed with ketone esters and co-ingestion protocols, but findings were inconsistent. The review highlights variability in protocols and outcomes across studies, with some studies having small sample sizes.
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-9488/4/4/29 – This article discusses the potential of ketone supplementation in reducing migraine frequency. It includes a systematic review that incorporates one study with exogenous BHB, showing a significant positive effect on migraine attack reduction. The findings suggest a promising avenue for migraine management, but further research is needed to confirm these effects.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1204700/full – This research explores the effects of exogenous ketone supplementation on glycogen sparing and enhanced fat oxidation during endurance exercise. The study indicates that the impact of exogenous ketones on these metabolic processes is mixed and dependent on the specific protocols used. The findings suggest that the benefits of ketone supplementation may vary based on the context of exercise and individual metabolic responses.