Someone please explain...

...what exactly is ketosis? Before surgery, I was told to be aware if I suddenly have a metallic taste in my mouth and, shocker, I do now. Everything that I've read says that it can be a positive thing for weight loss. My surgeon's nurse, however, made it sound like  it was something to be avoided.

Honestly, I'm not exactly sure what it IS other than the body using ketones and burning fat for energy. WHY is that bad?

Thanks, lovelies!

Ketosis is bad if you're diabetic, because it indicates a shortage of insulin.  It is controversial, but it is the state you get to on a low carb diet.

Gotcha. Thanks!

There is a distinct difference between ketosis and ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is a potentially life threatening complication of diabetes (usually type 1, but type 2 can get it as well). Ketoacisdosis occurs when there is a shortage of insulin in the body and the body starts converting fatty acids for energy while not using the glucose in the blood. Ketoacidosis is characterized by very high blood sugar levels.

Ketosis is simply a natural process by which the body converts fats to energy because there is not enough glucose in the blood to convert to the needed energy. This process happens during low carb diets, during an extended fast, and during long periods of exercise after glucose stores are depleted.

You will most likely be in and out of ketosis during the entire weight loss process. You won't even notice it after a while. It's a real trip at the beginning, right after surgery, when you get that funky metallic taste in your mouth and you feel like you have to brush your teeth every hour! Don't worry, it will pass. And being in ketosis is perfectly safe according to most docs. However, if you are worried check with your surgeon's office.

Thanks for the clarification! You're right. It is trippy!