Glucose Ketone Index (GKI) Equals More Efficient Way to Understand Overall Health
If you’re on the keto diet, you know all about ketones, an alternative fuel source for the body when glucose is in short supply, but are you aware of the Glucose Ketone Index (GKI)?
Because stress, fasting or a high-fat meal can affect one measurement, a single reading does not accurately represent your health. The GKI, however, brings together glucose and ketone levels to provide a more complete picture.
For example, even with ideal ketone levels for weight loss, high blood glucose levels can affect your health goals and prevent you from receiving the full benefits of ketosis.
The GKI number you strive for depends on your health goal, but generally, a lower GKI is best.
How to calculate Glucose Ketone Index (GKI)
[Blood Glucose Result ÷ 18] ÷ Blood Ketone Result = GKI
By dividing the blood glucose result by 18, it converts the reading from mg/dL to mmol/L.
Plug in your numbers in our GKI calculator below to see your results. Please note: this calculator uses mg/dL for blood glucose and will automatically convert it to mmol/L for you.
Here are some standards for understanding your GKI results:
Result What it Means
≥9 You have not reached ketosis yet.
6-9 You're in a low level of ketosis.
Ideal for anyone whose goal is weight loss or maintaining optimal health.
3-6 You're in a moderate level of ketosis.
Ideal for those with type 2 diabetes, obesity or insulin resistance.
≤3 You're in a high therapeutic level of ketosis.
Ideal for patients who have cancer, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease.
