What Is Beta-Hydroxybutyrate?

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is an acidic chemical produced in the body in response to a lowering of its ability to digest glucose for energy. The medical profession uses the measuring of BHB to help manage conditions brought on by diabetes.

Facts

Beta-hydroxybutyrate is one of three ketones (toxic acidic chemicals) produced in the body. It can appear in elevated levels in tissue, blood or urine during periods of starvation, digestive disorders, frequent vomiting and diabetic conditions and when the body fluids contain too much alkali.

Significance

Since the body produces ketones when it experiences a shortage of insulin, the measurement of BHB levels is useful in managing such conditions as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is usually seen in people with type 1 diabetes.
If the blood contains elevated levels of BHB, adjustments need to be made in the patient’s insulin regimen.

Types

When the body cannot produce insulin, it increases the production of a ketone called acetoacetate, which allows the body to get energy from body fats.

In some circumstances, such as when following a low-carbohydrate diet, the metabolizing of body fats is safe.

However, if brought on by starvation or ketoacidosis (a condition resulting from inadequate insulin and subsequent high blood sugar and the accumulation of ketones in the blood), the condition becomes dangerous and, if left untreated, can be toxic to the body.

Warning

During any of the instigating situations mentioned above, so much acetoacetate accumulates in the tissues and organs that the body cannot metabolize it. Once it gets into the blood, most of it (78 percent) is converted into beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). Two percent is changed into acetone, and the rest remains acetoacetate.
In normal instances, excess ketones are excreted through the urine. Acetone can also be exhaled through the lungs, giving the breath a fruity odor.

Benefits

Doctors have found that using the measurement of BHB in the control of diabetes and related conditions decreases the time needed for proper management of the condition and, therefore, the time necessary for the patient to remain in the hospital.