The glucose-ketone index (GKI) is a ratio derived from blood glucose and ketone levels. It offers insight into metabolic status, particularly regarding ketosis. The calculation involves dividing the glucose reading (measured in mg/dL or mmol/L) by 18 if using mg/dL, then dividing that result by the ketone reading (measured in mmol/L). For example, if glucose is 90 mg/dL and ketones are 2 mmol/L, the calculation would be (90/18) / 2 = 2.5. A lower resulting number generally indicates a deeper state of ketosis.
This index serves as a potential tool for monitoring metabolic therapies, especially in contexts like ketogenic diets designed for weight management, epilepsy control, or cancer treatment support. It provides a more comprehensive view of metabolic health compared to glucose or ketone measurements alone, as it considers the interplay between these two critical biomarkers. Historically, monitoring ketone levels alone was common, but the integration of glucose provides a more nuanced understanding of the body’s fuel utilization.
