Thread by @KetoCounselor

Doesn't butyrate also convert into beta-hydroxybutyrate in the main ketone body? Is there some inner conversion in the gut? Are these used interchangeably? (1/11)

For the most part, the pools of butyrate in the gut and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) are separate. Remember, #BHB is a #ketone body that is produced by your body on a #ketogenic diet. (2/11)

There are some bacteria that may be able to put the hydroxyl group onto butyrate to create BHB. But for the most part, butyrate produced in the gut is mostly from the fermentation of fibers and different prebiotics. (3/11)

There are other species in the gut that are distinct from the species that make butyrate that can make BHB. (4/11)

But the vast majority of BHB that the gut is exposed to is going to be from the host circulation and from liver production of BHB. (5/11)

However, there is an interesting dynamic between a fasted state and a fed state. In a fasted state, low butyrate within the lining of the gut occurs because people are not getting the fermentation of fibers. (6/11)

But in that state, people get increased production of BHB from the liver. This provides what is needed. In the fastest state, you have high BHB; in the fed state, you have high butyrate because prebiotic fiber comes in through foods. (7/11)

But in either case, you're still getting either BHB or butyrate to the colon cells, which need these similar molecules as fuel sources to thrive. (8/11)

Where did I learn this cool information about gut health and ketogenic diets? By listening to this very knowledgeable researcher on this podcast who is way smarter than I am. I don't want you guys to think I make this stuff up. (9/11)

But this supports my suspicion that fiber may not be as important as we think for people on a ketogenic diet. We just see too many chronic diseases that highly correlate with poor gut health improve on almost zero fiber diets (like Carnivore). 🥩(10/11)

But if you are still feeling strongly about riding the pre-biotic fiber train, you can find oodles in your low-carb veggies on a #ketogenic diet. (11/11) 🚋