Christina Campbell @dr-oilymomcomcast-net
I did reach out to Kenetik to ask for their information on the topic of esterified versus split ketone esters. For those interested here is the reply which I think so reflects the integrity of this company. Interesting , I had several patients (especially some of my more sick/fraglile that found the taste of ketones so unpleasant, t actually spiked their glucose (presumably a stress response for them?)
Both the compliance of a really good tasting ketone for my patients (which is huge) as well as the supportive and objective data makes this a really nice option for people. I Easily and happily drink kenetik as a treat as well as its health benefits!
Restoring Clarity to the Ketone Conversation: A Scientific Perspective on Kenetik
In recent discussions about exogenous ketones, some concerns have been raised suggesting that products referencing “ketone ester” research may misrepresent the science if they are not, in fact, single esters. Kenetik, for example, uses a blend of free D-beta-hydroxybutyrate (D-BHB) and R-1,3-butanediol rather than a fully esterified molecule. We value rigorous science and wish to address the following:
- Our Acknowledgement of Foundational Ketone Research
- How Kenetik’s Blend Works Metabolically
- Misconceptions About the Need for an Intact Ester Bond
- Practical Advantages of a Blended Approach
Recognizing Scientific Integrity & Foundational Research
First, we acknowledge the pioneering role of the NIH-patented ketone ester (D-BHB esterified to R-1,3-butanediol) in advancing our understanding of exogenous ketone use. Much of the early, robust research on exogenous ketones stems from studies on this molecule. That said, the essential takeaway from these and subsequent studies is that achieving therapeutic levels of free D-BHB in the bloodstream is paramount to reaping metabolic and potential performance benefits.
How Kenetik’s Blend Works Metabolically
Kenetik contains free D-BHB and R-1,3-butanediol. While this differs from a “single molecule” ester, the metabolic fate is actually quite similar once inside the body:
- Immediate BHB Availability: The free BHB component quickly raises ketone levels in the bloodstream, allowing your tissues—brain, heart, and muscles—to harness ketones rapidly.
- Delayed Conversion from R-1,3-butanediol: R-1,3-butanediol travels to the liver, where it is oxidized via alcohol dehydrogenase, ultimately yielding additional D-BHB over time. This process creates a biphasic release: immediate BHB from ingestion, followed by a second wave of BHB from the butanediol conversion.
Misconceptions About the Need for an Intact Ester Bond
A recurring claim is that esterifying D-BHB to R-1,3-butanediol is essential for better absorption or brain penetration. Let’s clarify:
- Rapid Hydrolysis of the Ester: Even with a fully esterified ketone, the bond between D-BHB and R-1,3-butanediol is typically hydrolyzed in the gut or bloodstream. In other words, the intact ester does not remain “as is” in circulation; it quickly splits into the same two molecules (free BHB and R-1,3-butanediol).
- Transport into Tissues: Once free D-BHB is in the bloodstream, it crosses membranes (including the blood-brain barrier) via monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs), which are well-distributed throughout the body. No current evidence suggests that D-BHB must remain esterified to facilitate crossing into the brain or tissues. The critical factor is elevating free BHB levels.
- Why Esterification Was Historically Used: Older research used a fully esterified molecule largely to avoid certain issues (e.g., high salt loads) and to deliver substantial amounts of D-BHB plus a BHB precursor. While that approach has advantages—such as distinct pharmacokinetic profiles—the key mechanism of benefit is still the production of free D-BHB in the bloodstream.
Practical Benefits of a Blended Approach
Kenetik’s design brings multiple practical advantages, which also address some barriers to adopting exogenous ketones:
- Biphasic Ketone Delivery: A fast rise in ketones from free BHB plus a sustained release via R-1,3-butanediol. This can be especially helpful for endurance athletes, professionals seeking prolonged focus, or anyone desiring a multi-hour energy profile.
- Cost-Effectiveness & Accessibility: Pure ketone esters often come at a premium price, which limits broader, long-term use. Blending free BHB and R-1,3-butanediol allows Kenetik to maintain metabolic efficacy while remaining more affordable.
- Improved Palatability: It’s no secret that single-ester products have notoriously strong, bitter flavors, often making them difficult to consume regularly. Blending allows for better flavor profiles, improving user experience and encouraging consistent use—key to enjoying long-term benefits.
- Established Safety Profile: While R-1,3-butanediol is structurally an “alcohol,” its metabolism primarily yields D-BHB rather than toxic byproducts seen with ethanol. When used as intended, R-1,3-butanediol has demonstrated favorable tolerability in the context of ketone supplementation.
Concluding Thoughts: Science, Transparency, and Accessibility
Kenetik respects the foundational research on the NIH ketone ester and does not dispute the benefits observed in those studies. However, it’s essential to recognize that the body ultimately relies on free D-BHB for fuel. Whether BHB and R-1,3-butanediol enter the bloodstream as a single ester or a blended formulation, hydrolysis rapidly separates them into the same two key components. This shared pathway underscores why a blend can achieve similar metabolic goals—often with added flexibility in taste, cost, and prolonged usage.
Our mission is to make the benefits of ketones accessible to as many people as possible—balancing metabolic science, affordability, and a better flavor experience to encourage consistent, long-term use.
We invite continued research into various ketone formulations—esters, salts, and blends alike—and welcome open dialogue with scientists, clinicians, and everyday users. By remaining transparent about our formulations and championing science-based information, we strive to enhance understanding and ultimately help more people experience the potential benefits of exogenous ketones.
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