Question:
Ketosis

Hi Everyone: Many, many questions have been asked about ketosis, but none answers my problem specifically. What is the limit to the amount of carbs you can consume and be in ketosis? Just generally, I know everyone is different. How is anyone able to take in no carbs daily, as I read that some posters do. I use a liquid protein supplement in the morning, and that contains 5 carbs. Except for straight tuna fish, chicken and turkey, everything seems to contain some carbs. I am only able to tolerate turkey meatballs and turkey meatloaf. I know those contain carbs, because of the breadcrumbs. Please provide me with a sample menu of a diet that will likely induce ketosis. I am almost 8 weeks postop. I have had the awful breath, but do not know if there are any other ways to tell you are in ketosis except for the urine sticks. Thanks. You guys are great. Love Grace    — Grace H. (posted on October 15, 2002)

October 15, 2002
You don't have to stay in Ketosis. Try to always put your protein first and eat lower amounts of carbs, but you don't need to stay in Ketosis.
   — Linda A.

October 15, 2002
Staying in ketosis isn't that hard, but the previous poster is correct. You don't have to stay in ketosis. If however you want to, your carbs should stay at 20 or less a day. Some people (me included) can still stay in under 60 grams a day...some have to be very strict with the 20. Play with it and see what works for you :>)
   — [Deactivated Member]

October 15, 2002
Doesn't staying in ketosis for a prolonged period increase the risk of kidney stones?
   — Suzy C.

October 15, 2002
Suzy, yes it does....prolonged ketosis will damage your kidneys
   — heathercross

October 15, 2002
You do need some "healthy" carbs for a healthy diet. A strictly NO carb diet can be dangerous in the long run and almost impossible to stay on, but a low carb diet can be healthy if done right. I think Atkins states that staying around 30 grams or under a day should be the general rule. I usually go into very deep ketosis after two days of staying under 15-20 grams. Everyone is different though. My Mom can eat NO carbs and the urine stick still doesn't turn purple! It barely shows a trace. But she does lose weight like crazy still. I wouldnt worry too much about ketosis. Just try to eat your protein first, and limit your carbs to healthy carbs that come from veggies, fruits, whole grains etc. and try to stay away from enriched white breads, simple sugars,white rice etc. Good Luck to you! (open RNY 7/23/02 -71 pounds)
   — Shawnie S.