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The ketogenic diet has gained popularity among athletes for its potential to provide steady energy levels, enhanced fat utilization, and improved mental clarity. In ketosis, the body shifts from burning glucose to burning ketones, which are derived from fats. Ideal for freediving, perhaps?
Learnings
Let’s dig into what it means to “burn ketones” and how it affects our dives.
Looking at the molecular structure and metabolism of ketones versus glucose reveals key differences in CO2 production and O2 requirements. Glucose (C6H12O6) on oxidation produces CO2 and H2O as byproducts. Each glucose molecule produces six molecules of CO2. This process is relatively straightforward and rapid, making glucose a quick energy source. However, with high CO2 output, it increases our urge to breathe.
Ketones, (primarily C4H8O3), are produced from fatty acids. The breakdown of ketones also produces CO2, but the process generates less CO2 compared to glucose metabolism. On top of this, the oxidation of ketones involves longer, more complex pathways that distribute CO2 production over a more extended period, thus reducing the immediate CO2 load on the body.
So let’s go keto, right?
Well, not so fast. This only considers CO2 production. However, when it comes to O2 input, the metabolic pathways of ketones require more oxygen per molecule compared to glucose. This is due to the higher H content in ketones, necessitating more oxygen for their complete oxidation to CO2 and H2O. It is generally understood that the body does become more efficient in utilizing oxygen during ketosis over time, potentially offsetting the higher oxygen demand.
Putting this into practice
Hmm.. So where do we go from here?
Given these metabolic characteristics, the ketogenic diet presents a mixed bag for freedivers. The steady energy supply from ketones, combined with lower immediate CO2 production, suggests that it may help us delay a strong urge to breathe. However, given that oxygen remains the final limiting factor in your dive times, the higher oxygen requirement for metabolizing ketones compared to glucose is still likely to degrade your performance.
Additionally, the ketogenic diet is known to be one of the most challenging to maintain long-term. It takes several days for your body to enter ketosis and even longer to adapt for better oxygen utilization. If you are interested in trying it out, consider starting with a fast to accelerate ketosis. Give yourself ample time—ideally at least two months—before drawing any conclusions. You can always return to your current diet afterward, armed with the insights you've gained from the experience.
Conclusion
The ketogenic diet offers steady energy and reduced immediate CO2 production, potentially benefiting freedivers by improving breath-hold times. However, the higher oxygen demand for ketone metabolism and the diet's strictness may form a problem and negate the benefits. Ultimately, only personal experimentation will determine its suitability for you.
Love the game.