Ketone Test Strips & Monitors
Ketone test strips: what you need to know
At Healthylife, we offer a range of ketone test strips, empowering you with tools to stay informed about your body’s ketone levels. These strips are simple to use and may help provide insights into how your body is burning fat for fuel.
Whether you’re on a ketogenic diet, managing diabetes or just curious about how your body works, we have you covered with reliable tools to support your health journey. You may wish to consult a healthcare professional to find out how ketone test strips can help your health journey.
What are ketone test strips?
Ketone test strips are small, disposable tools that may help detect ketones in your urine or blood. But what are ketones? They are chemical compounds your body produces when it breaks down fat for energy instead of using carbohydrates. This process is common during fasting, prolonged exercise, or when following a low-carb diet like keto.
There are two main types of ketone test strips: urine ketone test strips and blood ketone test strips. Urine test strips are easy to use, widely available, and often more affordable as they don’t require a blood ketone monitor. Blood strips, on the other hand, offer a more precise way to track real-time ketone levels by measuring beta-hydroxybutyrate levels in the bloodstream.
How do you use ketone test strips?
Using ketone test strips is quick and straightforward, making it a convenient way to check your ketone levels at home. All products will have differing instructions, so we recommend referring to your product packaging for the correct method. In most cases, the general use will be as follows:
Urine ketone test strips:
-
Collect a clean urine sample in a container.
-
Dip the strip into the sample and gently shake off excess liquid.
-
Wait for the strip to change colour, usually within 15–30 seconds, depending on the brand.
-
Refer to the product instructions to identify the result.
Blood ketone test strips require a compatible blood ketone monitor. To use them:
-
Insert a blood strip into the monitor.
-
Prick your finger with a lancet to collect a small drop of blood.
-
Place the drop of blood on the strip and wait for the reading.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for accurate results.
How do you read ketone test strips?
Reading ketone test strips is simple but important for understanding your body. For urine ketone test strips, compare the colour change on the strip to the chart provided with the packaging to determine your ketone levels.
For blood ketone test strips, the reading will be displayed on the digital monitor, showing a numeric value in mmol/L. Blood monitors often provide a more precise measurement than urine ketone test strips. However, it’s essential to interpret these readings with the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially if you’re using them to manage a medical condition like diabetes.
How accurate are ketone test strips?
Urine ketone test strips may provide a general indication of ketone levels, but they are not always the most precise method. Factors like hydration and the timing of the test can influence results. Blood ketone test strips may be more accurate but require specialised equipment and are typically more expensive.
Although ketone test strips can offer helpful insights, they are best used as a general guide rather than a diagnostic tool. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and an accurate interpretation of your results.
Get your ketone test strips at Healthylife
Ready to start tracking your ketone levels? Browse our range of ketone test strips and find the perfect tool to support your health journey today!