Keto Urinalysis Strips: Testing Your Ketone Levels

Ketone strips are a convenient and affordable way to measure whether your body is in ketosis—a natural metabolic state in which your body burns fat for fuel. This state can be achieved by following a ketogenic or keto diet, which is a low-carb, high-fat and moderate-protein diet.

There are two types of keto strips: urine and blood. Urine strips are ideal for those new to the keto diet as they are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. Blood strips, on the other hand, are more accurate but also more expensive and invasive as they require you to prick your finger to draw blood.

To use a urine ketone strip, simply hold the strip in your urine stream or dip it into a clean container with a urine sample for a few seconds. Remove the strip and wait for the colour to change as per the instructions on the packaging. Finally, compare the colour of the strip to the colour chart provided to determine your ketone level.

How to collect a urine sample

To collect a urine sample, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands.
• Urinate into a small, clean container. It's important that the container is clean to avoid any contamination that might affect the results.
• If you prefer, you can also pass the end of the strip briefly through your urine stream as you urinate into the toilet.
• Dip the test end of the strip into the urine sample. Make sure you dip the strip far enough so that the urine reaches the chemically sensitive end of the strip. This end will be slightly thicker than the other.
• Wait for a few seconds (as indicated on the test package) for the end of the strip to change colour.
• Remove the strip from the urine sample and shake it gently to remove any excess liquid.
• Compare the colour of the strip to the colour chart on the test package.
• Dispose of the urine testing strip and wash your hands.

It's important to note that the timing of the test can affect the results. For the most reliable results, it is recommended to test your urine at the same time every day, such as in the morning or several hours after your last meal. Additionally, make sure to follow the specific instructions provided with your chosen brand of ketone test strips.

How to use keto strips

Keto strips are a cheap and convenient way to find out if your body has entered ketosis, a natural state in which your body burns fat for fuel. They are often used by people on the keto diet, which is a low-carb, high-fat and moderate-protein diet.

Using keto strips

To use keto strips, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands.
• Collect a urine sample in a small, clean, dry container.
• Pass the absorptive end of the strip through the urine stream, or dip it into the container and fully immerse it for a few seconds.
• Remove the strip and shake off any excess urine.
• Wait for the amount of time stated on the package for the strip to change colour.
• Compare the colour of the strip to the colour chart on the packaging. The darker the colour, the higher your ketone levels.
• Dispose of the urine and strip appropriately and wash your hands.

Accuracy of keto strips

It's important to note that the concentration of ketones in your urine can change depending on how hydrated you are. Dehydration may result in a false positive, while drinking a lot of water can lead to a false negative. Additionally, as your body adjusts to the keto diet, it becomes more optimised in producing ketones, which may result in lower ketone levels in your urine over time, even if you're still in ketosis. Therefore, while keto strips are a good tool to measure ketosis when starting a keto diet, they may not be accurate for long-term use.

How to compare strip colour to the chart

Once you have followed the steps to take a urine sample, you can compare the colour of the strip to the chart on the packaging. The colour will correspond to the concentration of ketones in your urine, which can range from no ketones to high concentrations. The darker the colour, the higher your ketone levels.

The strips typically range from light pink on one end to dark purple on the other (indicating progressively higher ketone levels). The colour on the far left of the chart means that no ketones are present, and the pink colours signify a light to medium state of nutritional ketosis. As you move further to the right, the darker purple shades suggest a very strong level of ketosis.

It is important to note that urine strips are not always 100% accurate, and the readings may fluctuate for a number of reasons. For example, if you are drinking a lot of water, it may dilute the urine and affect the reading. Similarly, if you are dehydrated, the concentration of ketones may be higher.

Additionally, ketone strips only test for the ketone body acetoacetate. As you get deeper into ketosis and become keto-adapted, your body will begin to efficiently convert acetoacetate and produce more of the ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which cannot be detected using urine test strips.

Therefore, if you are looking for a more accurate measurement of your ketone levels, you may consider using a blood ketone meter or a breath ketone analyser.

How to dispose of keto strips

It is important to dispose of keto strips properly after use. Here are some detailed instructions on how to dispose of keto strips:

• After obtaining a urine sample, either by urinating directly onto the strip or into a small container and then dipping the strip, it is crucial to dispose of the strip appropriately.
• The strip should not be flushed down the toilet, as this may cause plumbing issues. Instead, wrap the used strip in a piece of toilet paper or tissue and throw it into a waste bin.
• Ensure that the bin is easily accessible near the toilet or sink where you conducted the test.
• If you are using a container to collect the urine sample, dispose of the urine appropriately as well. Pour it down the toilet and give the container a quick rinse before reusing it or placing it in the recycling bin, depending on the type of material it is made of.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the strips and urine sample to maintain good hygiene and prevent any potential contamination.
• If you are using a lidded container for urine collection, ensure that the lid is secure before disposing of the urine to avoid any accidental spills or leaks.
• Some keto strip kits may come with specific disposal instructions, so be sure to read the package insert carefully before use and follow any disposal guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
• If you are conducting these tests in a public restroom, be considerate of others and dispose of the strips and any related waste properly to maintain a clean and hygienic space for everyone.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the keto strips are disposed of in a safe and responsible manner, contributing to a cleaner environment and reducing the risk of any potential health hazards.

How to choose the best time to use keto strips

Keto strips are a convenient and affordable way to test for ketosis, especially for those new to the keto diet. The best time to use keto strips is when your ketone levels are likely to be higher than normal. This can occur if you are on a low-carbohydrate diet or if you are a diabetic.

Test in the Morning or Evening:

It is recommended to test your ketone levels either in the morning, after waking up, or in the evening, a few hours after your last meal. This ensures that your body is in a fasted state, which can provide more accurate results.

Consistency is Key:

For the most reliable results, try to test your ketone levels at the same time each day. This consistency will allow you to compare results over time and track your progress more effectively.

Monitor Progress When Starting the Keto Diet:

If you have just started the keto diet, it is a good idea to test your ketone levels frequently, such as twice a day. This will help you monitor your progress and watch your body transition into ketosis.

Be Mindful of Dehydration:

Dehydration can lead to increased ketone levels in the body. To ensure accurate and consistent results, make sure you are well-hydrated before testing with keto strips.

Check Expiry Dates:

Keto strips typically expire within 3-6 months of opening. Using expired strips may result in inaccurate readings. Always check the expiry date before testing and store the strips in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality.

Consult Your Doctor:

If you are taking any medications, consult your doctor to ensure that they will not interfere with the test results. Your doctor can also advise you on the best time to test based on your individual circumstances.

By following these guidelines, you can choose the best time to use keto strips to accurately monitor your ketone levels and track your progress on the keto diet.

Frequently asked questions