Keto Gummies: How Do They Work?

Keto gummies are dietary supplements designed for people following a keto diet. They typically contain high-quality ingredients such as MCT oil, collagen, and natural sweeteners. The keto aspect of these gummies means they have high healthy fats, low carbohydrates, and moderate protein levels. This combination puts your body into ketosis, where it burns stored fat for energy instead of glucose from carbs.

Keto gummies contain exogenous ketones, which are compounds that mimic the effects of ketosis. They are meant to aid people following a keto diet in losing weight by giving them an alternative source of energy. These gummies raise ketone levels in the blood, causing the body to burn stored fat for energy instead of glucose.

However, it is important to note that keto gummies do not put you into ketosis. You need to already be in a state of ketosis for the gummies to work. Additionally, there is limited research on the benefits of keto gummies, and they may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues.

Do keto gummies work for weight loss?

Keto gummies are supplements marketed to support people on a ketogenic diet—a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that is an effective treatment for epilepsy and has more recently been used for weight loss and blood sugar control.

Keto gummies are made with exogenous ketones, a term for ketones that come from an outside source. Ketones are molecules generated from body fat that organs like the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle use as an alternative fuel source when glycogen, the body's storage form of carbohydrates, is depleted. In a ketogenic state, ketones provide fuel and decrease hunger.

There is limited research on the benefits of keto gummies. Experts say not enough research exists to suggest that taking exogenous ketones can induce ketosis in someone who isn’t following a strict ketogenic diet.

One study found that people with obesity who took apple cider vinegar (a common ingredient in keto gummies) daily for 12 weeks saw a weight reduction of 1.6 kilograms. However, within 4 weeks of stopping the vinegar, their weight and waist circumference returned to their pre-research participation weight and size.

Another study found that people with obesity who followed a low-calorie ketogenic diet and took a ketone supplement per day for six weeks experienced enhanced ketosis. However, higher ketone levels did not seem to boost weight loss when compared to a group that followed only the keto diet without the supplement.

Potential risks

Potential side effects of taking keto gummies may include nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, and low blood sugar.

Alternatives

Whole foods that support a ketogenic diet may be a better alternative to keto gummies, according to weight loss physician and coach Phyllis Pobee. Foods high in healthy fats, like avocados, nuts, and seeds, as well as lean proteins, can support ketosis without the potential side effects of processed supplements.

Are keto gummies safe?

Keto gummies are dietary supplements designed to help those on a keto diet remain in a state of ketosis. They contain exogenous ketones, which are ketones sourced from outside the body. However, it's important to note that keto gummies don't induce ketosis; they only aid in maintaining it.

The safety of keto gummies is a matter of debate. While they are likely safe for most people, there are some potential risks and side effects to consider.

Firstly, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking medication.

Secondly, the supplement market is largely unregulated, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve dietary supplements. This means there is a chance that what is listed on the label may not accurately reflect what is in the product, and there may even be harmful contaminants. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase products that have been tested and certified by third-party organisations.

Additionally, keto gummies may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea, especially if they contain sorbitol, which has a laxative effect. They may also negatively impact individuals with Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney issues, as the keto diet and supplements can lower blood sugar levels and cause dehydration.

Furthermore, while keto gummies claim to aid weight loss, boost energy, and improve digestion, these claims are often not backed by scientific studies or evidence. Most research on the benefits of apple cider vinegar, a common ingredient in keto gummies, has been conducted on liquid forms rather than gummies.

In conclusion, while keto gummies may be safe for most people, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before consuming them. The potential risks and side effects should be carefully considered, and it is important to remember that these supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

What are the ingredients in keto gummies?

The ingredients in keto gummies vary depending on the brand, but they are typically made with a combination of apple cider vinegar, vitamins, natural sweeteners, and other additives. Here is a list of common ingredients found in keto gummies:

• Apple cider vinegar: This is a key ingredient in many keto gummies as it contains acetic acid, which is claimed to have health benefits such as detoxification and improved digestion.
• Vitamins: Keto gummies often contain vitamins B6, B9 (folate), and B12, which are involved in energy metabolism and have other potential health benefits.
• Natural sweeteners: Sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, monk fruit extract, or beetroot juice are used to improve the taste of the gummies without adding sugar.
• MCT oil: Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is a type of fat that is easily absorbed and metabolised by the body, and it is claimed to aid in weight loss and improve energy levels.
• Collagen: Collagen is a protein that is important for skin, bone, and joint health, and it is sometimes added to keto gummies as a dietary supplement.
• Keto BHB salts: Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) salts are compounds that mimic the effects of ketosis, which is the metabolic state achieved by following a keto diet.

It is important to note that while these ingredients may have potential health benefits, the effectiveness of keto gummies has not been extensively studied and may vary depending on the individual. As with any dietary supplement, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming keto gummies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific needs.

What are the potential benefits of keto gummies?

While there is limited research on the benefits of keto gummies, they are believed to offer several potential advantages.

Firstly, keto gummies are designed to aid weight loss by boosting metabolism and reducing appetite. They contain exogenous ketones, which are compounds that mimic the effects of ketosis, helping the body burn stored fat for energy instead of glucose. This can lead to increased weight loss, which is one of the primary goals of the keto diet.

Secondly, keto gummies may improve athletic performance. The ketones in the gummies can provide an alternative source of energy, potentially enhancing physical endurance and reducing fatigue.

Additionally, keto gummies are often marketed as a convenient and tasty way to follow the keto diet. They can make it easier for individuals to stick to the diet by providing a treat without the harsh taste of apple cider vinegar or the restrictions of a strict keto meal plan.

It is important to note that the potential benefits of keto gummies are not universally accepted and require further scientific research. Some sources suggest that the effects of keto gummies are inconclusive, and they may even carry potential risks, such as gastrointestinal issues and dehydration. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating keto gummies into your diet.

What are the potential risks of keto gummies?

While keto gummies are purported to support weight loss, improve energy, mental focus and digestion, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of.

Firstly, it's important to note that keto gummies are not regulated by the FDA, and there is limited research on the long-term effects and effectiveness of these supplements.

Potential side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. This is especially true if the keto gummies contain sugar alcohols like sorbitol, maltitol, and xylitol, which can cause gastrointestinal distress.

Additionally, herbal extracts and other ingredients found in keto gummies may interact with certain medications or cause other side effects. For example, garcinia cambogia, an ingredient in some keto gummies, has been linked to liver toxicity, headaches, nausea, and diarrhea.

Furthermore, keto gummies can potentially lower blood sugar, leading to hypoglycemic responses. They can also cause dehydration, which is a common side effect of the keto diet in general, as the body experiences water loss before fat loss.

Therefore, it is crucial to speak with a doctor or a registered dietitian before adding keto gummies to your daily routine, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Frequently asked questions