WHAT IS BETA-HYDROXYBUTYRATE (BHB)?
It may seem like everyone and their mother is on the keto diet. (Spoiler alert: they are!) While the keto diet isn’t anything new, going keto is still going strong because of the success many of its followers have found. So what about you? You know what the keto diet is. You know what foods to eat on the keto diet. But do you know what supplements are available to support your keto diet goals? If you’re looking for that edge to help you keto well, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) may be a keto supplement to consider.
Read More: The Ketogenic Diet: Understanding What The Keto Diet is and How to Follow It
What Is Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB)?
Whew, what a mouthful! Beta-hydroxybutyrate, BHB from here on out, is a type of ketone body that is produced by the liver from fatty acids. You may have heard BHB supplements referred to as exogenous ketones or ketone salts. BHB is a naturally occurring metabolite formed during fat digestion and metabolism. It’s a molecule that can act as a fuel source for different body parts when carbohydrates aren’t available. While it’s normally found in the blood in low levels, during times of severe carbohydrate restriction, like when following a strict keto diet, blood BHB levels are elevated.
Should I Supplement With Exogenous Ketones?
If you follow the keto diet, you know the goal is to reach nutritional ketosis. Though ketones are produced by the body, they can also be supplemented in the form of exogenous ketones like BHB. In theory, the keto diet will result in higher BHB levels. Because there are so many variations in the keto diet, some people choose to supplement with BHB to help increase the level of the compound in their blood. It’s a totally personal choice based on your goals and how you choose to follow the keto diet.
What Supplements Contain BHB?
We’re glad you asked. One of the hottest BHB products to rock the ketosphere is Total Lean® Keto BHB + Carnitine. This BHB supplement was scientifically formulated to feature BHB and a clinically studied form of L-Carnitine, which has been clinically shown to limit serum myoglobin post-exercise, a marker of muscle breakdown. It’s also been shown to fuel exercise recovery and impact fatty acid metabolism, which is something you’re probably interested in if you’re living your best keto life. If you’re looking for additional keto-friendly options, KetoLogic® BHB is another dietary supplement formulated with BHB.
If you’ve been crushing it with keto recipes for meals and want a little extra support, check out supplements with BHB. Want even more support in your quest to keto well? Head in to a GNC store and talk to a coach. Whatever you’re into, they’ll help you get your goal on.
