As mentioned, when your body goes into lipolysis, one of the by-products is ketones. The more ketones present in your system, the more fat you will burn. Fortunately, there is a tool available for us to measure the amount of ketones in our urine.

The are called ketone testing strips or lipolysis testing strips. The are widely available under names such as metabostix or ketostix at major drugstores. The strips will change to varying shades of pink to purple depending on the amount of ketones present in your urine.

They will not change color if no ketones are detected. This is a great tool becuase it is proof positive that you are eating the correct way and not sneaking carbs.

What if I can’t get into ketosis?
OK, I’ve cut my carbohydrate intake to 20 or less and the testing strips will not change color. First, you need to ensure thast you are really eating 20 grams of carbohydrates or less. Often, we sneak carbs or really are sure how many we have had. 20 grams of carbohydrates is not very many so it is easy to miss your target. Eliminate all sugars, breading and potatoes. Second, try to take the test in the morning on an empty stomach.

Follow a strict regiman and retest after 3-5 days. If it still doesn’t turn color, eliminate any high glycemic foods such as carrots, tomatoes and onions. Obtain your 20 grams of carbohydrates from green vegetables such salads. Also, ensure you have eliminated alcohol from your diet during this time. If you can’t go without alcohol, at least eliminate it for 2-3 days and then test to see if the ketones are present in your body. Finally, some people still cannot achieve ketosis but still lose weight.