Ketosis is a by-product of Lipolysis. Lipolysis is the breakdown of fat stored in fat cells. During this process, free fatty acids are released into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body. The by-products of burning fat are ketones, so ketosis is a secondary process of lipolysis. Ketosis, which is a perfectly normal metabolic process, is often confused with ketoacidosis, which is a life-threatening condition. Ketoacidosis is the consequence of individuals having uncontrollable blood sugar levels.

Lipolysis is important to Atkins dieters because the effect it has on weight loss. By forcing your body into lipolysis by consuming 20 grams of carbohydrates or less per day, you switch to a metabolism which is primarily fat burning. Typically, your body can only store 2 days worth of glucose so most people can achieve ketosis on the third day.

As mentioned, when your body goes into

lipolysis

and

ketosis

, 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 because it is proof positive that you are eating the correct way and not sneaking carbs.

OK, I've cut my carbohydrate intake to 20 or less and the testing strips will not change color. First, you need to ensure that you are really eating 20 grams of carbohydrates or less. Often, we sneak carbs or we really are not 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 regimen 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.  There are ketones present in their system but not enough to make the testing strip turn colors. Don't fret about

ketosis

as long as you continue to lose weight. That is what is most important.