Recent research has begun to shine a light on the potential advantages of ketone supplements, especially for individuals managing type 2 diabetes.
A new study indicates that taking ketones before engaging in physical exercise may lead to notable enhancements in cardiac output, stroke volume, and oxygen supply to peripheral muscles—indicating a boost in heart performance.
Despite these promising insights, the researchers advise a cautious approach, stressing the need for further studies to substantiate these claims.
Type 2 Diabetes and Heart Health
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels, a condition that elevates the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
When insulin function is compromised, glucose remains in the bloodstream instead of being transformed into energy.
This process can result in elevated blood sugar levels and, ultimately, various health complications, including heart issues.
Current therapies for type 2 diabetes primarily aim to reduce blood glucose levels.
Among these treatments, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have emerged as effective options.
They not only help manage glucose levels but also may offer protective benefits for heart health.
This cardioprotective effect might stem from a shift into a metabolic state known as ketosis, where the body transitions from using carbohydrates to relying on fats for energy.
During ketosis, the liver converts fat into ketones, providing a new energy source for cells.
Effects of Ketone Supplements
Previous studies have highlighted that ketone supplements can help lower post-meal blood glucose levels in those with type 2 diabetes, raising questions about their potential broader effects.
To delve deeper into whether ketosis plays a role in the heart-protective benefits linked to SGLT2i, a research team from Portsmouth University in the UK investigated the effects of ketone monoesters—exogenous ketones—on the cardiac health of participants with type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Maria Perissiou, a co-author of the study, noted that physical activity can be particularly challenging for individuals with type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance, which limits the heart’s ability to effectively utilize glucose.
The study found that after taking the ketone supplement, participants exhibited a significant improvement in cardiac efficiency compared to those who received a placebo.
Research Findings and Future Directions
These findings were published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, where Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, an interventional cardiologist, praised the study’s contribution but also pointed out the importance of the limited number of participants involved.
The study included 13 participants, averaging 66 years old—comprising six men and seven women—all diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and free of major comorbid conditions.
Each participant was given either a ketone monoester or a placebo prior to completing a cycling test that monitored various metrics related to heart health.
After consuming the ketone drink, those in the experiment displayed enhanced heart function in the aftermath of exercise, revealing significant increases in both cardiac output and stroke volume. Dr. Menka Gupta remarked that exogenous ketones could serve as an efficient energy source for the heart, potentially helping to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation.
While the researchers acknowledge that their findings are preliminary, they stress the urgency for additional studies.
Future research should aim to investigate the relationship between the dosage of ketone supplements and health outcomes, as well as how prolonged use might impact cardiovascular health.
Source: Medicalnewstoday