I've been using the ReliOn ketone test strips since I started Atkins to test for ketosis and my question is, where do I want my ketone level to be on the Atkins diet? My reading is usally "small" to "moderate", should it be higher or is that where I want my ketone level to be?

Thanks in advance,
Lyna

Too many ketones can put you into ketoacidosis, which can be deadly. While this is usually seen with diabetics, I would be careful and ask your doctor what your level should be. I would guess (and it's only a guess) that anything higher than moderate is or can be dangerous.

Jenny

I do test from time to time, and depending on my hydration levels it may or not be positive. From what I've read on other low carb sites anything other than 'negative' indicates you're in ketosis, so the darker/lighter color doesnt matter (as Kim points out it can vary due to a lot of factors).

Ketosis in low carb is NOT the same thing as ketoacidosis, but if your test strips did ever come back extremely dark that would be worrying - usually in low carb the are lightly to moderately positive.

My strips are always pink or purple, but I haven't lost since week 1. I don't know why I continue to test, lol, it clearly doesn't represent my progress.