DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) occurs when your body doesn't have enough insulin to help blood sugar enter cells for energy.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Insulin Deficiency: The primary cause is a shortage of insulin.
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Alternative Fuel Source: Because glucose can't enter cells, the body starts breaking down fat for fuel instead.
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Ketone Production: This fat breakdown process produces acids called ketones. According to the provided reference from May 15, 2024, DKA develops "when your body doesn't have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into your cells for use as energy. Instead, your liver breaks down fat for fuel, a process that produces acids called ketones."
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Acid Buildup: The excessive ketones lead to a dangerous buildup of acid in the blood, resulting in DKA.
People with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can develop DKA.
