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Ketone bodies

Ketone bodies are three chemicals that are produced as by-products when fatty acids are broken down for energy. Contrary to what the name "bodies" may suggest, these are soluble compounds, not particles. Any production of these compounds is called ketogenesis, and this is necessary in small amounts. But, when excess ketone bodies accumulate, this abnormal (but not necessarily harmful) state is called ketosis. When even larger amounts of ketone bodies accumulate such that the body's pH is lowered to dangerously acidic levels, this state is called ketoacidosis.

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