Urine Ketones
This test checks for ketones in your urine, which are acids your body makes when it burns fat for energy instead of glucose. Small amounts can appear in everyday situations.
Ketones rise when your body shifts toward burning fat, such as during fasting, low-carbohydrate eating, intense exercise, or illness. In most cases this is a normal metabolic response. But higher levels, especially alongside high blood sugar, can be an important signal that your clinician will want to act on quickly. Tracking ketones offers a glimpse into how your body is fueling itself.
A positive result means your body is producing ketones, often from fasting, a low-carb diet, prolonged exercise, vomiting, or illness. Higher levels, particularly with elevated blood sugar, can indicate a serious imbalance that needs prompt medical attention.
A negative result means few or no ketones were detected, the typical finding when your body is running mainly on glucose.
Negative is the usual result. A positive finding, especially with high blood sugar, thirst, nausea, or rapid breathing, should be discussed with a clinician promptly.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.