Ketones are a type of acid that the body produces when it needs to break down body fat for energy. Trace amounts of ketones in urine are not usually a cause for concern, but high levels can indicate a serious medical issue. Here are some guidelines for interpreting ketone levels in urine:
- Normal: under 0.6mmol/L
- Slightly high: 0.6 to 1.5mmol/L – test again in 2 hours
- At risk of DKA: 1.6 to 3mmol/L – speak to your diabetes care team for advice
- High: over 3mmol/L – may have DKA and should call 999 or go to A&E
If you use strips to test for ketones in your pee, over 2+ is high. These ketone levels are a guide, and normal blood ketone levels can be different for different people. Your diabetes care team will advise you on what levels to look for. If you have a high level of ketones over 3mmol/L in your blood, or over 2+ in your pee, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
