here2bhealthy's Journal, 15 Aug 15

I'm a sucker for spreadsheets and data!! - Ketosis is metabolic state that the body will achieve/assume when there is a lack of available glucose and glycogen in the body. Typically people eat carbohydrates which the body will convert into glucose, enter the blood stream, get stored as glycogen in muscles, mitochondria of our cells and our liver for use later. When the muscle needs to move, glycogen is used; when a muscle moves a lot or is under stress it uses a lot of glycogen. The blood glucose levels will go up as the liver releases glycogen to get transported and stored in the muscle for use later. The cycle repeats. When you're in Ketosis, your body has a lack of blood glucose so it will go through a process that converts body fat into Ketones and these Ketones are then used like Glycogen for muscle movement and to fuel the mitochondria of our cells. Our body can and will create Glucose from fat too just like it creates Ketones; but this is not-common and is typically used to maintain some glucose in the blood. Our muscles and other organs will use Ketones and Fat directly to move and function; some studies show that a lot of our bodily functions work better and more efficient when being fueled by fat vs. glucose. The brain also uses Glucose as fuel, but can also run off of Ketones just the same. To get into Ketosis typically requires you to eat about 20g/day of carbohydrates (don't include fiber). It takes some time (a few days to a few weeks) for the body to become Ketoadaptive. If this is your first time for it, it can be difficult and you could feel sick (Keto-Flu). I equate this to someone coming off of opiates, some people get sick, some people get real sick, some people don't. If you attempt Keto, I find that increasing salt & water really help with muscle cramps, light headedness, etc.. Once the KetoFlu passes and you become Ketoadaptive, you'll notice that you don't require as frequent feedings as you do when you're burning carbs (glucose) for fuel. For me I feel like I can focus on work and complex tasks to a higher degree and I'm not distracted with the thoughts of foods and re-carbing for fuel. I'm more satiated when eating less food. You've got tens of thousands of calories of energy (your body fat) at your disposal at all times, ie. you carry your own fuel. When your a carb burner, you'll eventually run out of glucose and glycogen and you'll want to eat to replenish those supplies. It's a tough thing to hear, and a lot of people don't like it but carbohydrates are not an essential macro nutrient. There are no recognized diseases by any medical body that are a result of insufficient carbohydrates. Lack of Protein and Lack of Fats do cause issues with the body that can kill you. It's a long post and lot of information to go through but I hope it helps you understand what Keto is. If you ever need more understanding or have questions, please feel free to PM me.  

Thanks for the information and support!