During a DKA episode, the body starts using what alternative fuel source?

During a diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) episode, the body shifts its metabolism due to a lack of insulin and an inability to effectively use glucose for energy. In this state, the body begins to utilize fat stores as an alternative fuel source. As fat is broken down, it undergoes a process called lipolysis, which releases fatty acids into the bloodstream. These fatty acids are then converted into ketones by the liver, serving as an alternative energy source for the body's cells, particularly the brain and muscles. This metabolic shift is crucial because it allows the body to continue functioning when glucose is not readily available.

The reliance on fat stores leads to the accumulation of ketones in the blood, resulting in the characteristic ketoacidosis associated with DKA. This is marked by increased ketone levels and a decrease in blood pH, causing acidosis. Understanding this process underscores the importance of managing insulin levels in individuals with diabetes to prevent the development of DKA, as well as the body's metabolic adaptations during episodes of insulin deficiency.