Ketone Body Metabolism

This study will evaluate the feasibility and safety of achieving therapeutic concentrations of beta-hydroxybutyrate using continuous infusion of D-beta-hydroxybutyrate monoester administered via a nasogastric tube in patients with acutely decompensated heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction.

This study is being done to evaluate how a ketone ester (KE) supplement affects heart function and health in people with diabetes compared to a placebo supplement (made with standard food ingredients that do not contain ketone esters).

KETO-SENSE is a clinical research study investigating how ketone bodies affect energy metabolism and insulin sensitivity in humans. Ketone bodies are naturally produced by the liver during fasting or prolonged exercise and can serve as an alternative fuel for the brain, heart, and muscles. In this study, ten overweight but otherwise healthy adults aged 55-70 years will participate in four study days at Aarhus University Hospital. Participants will receive one of four interventions in a randomized crossover design: 1) growth hormone (GH) and a ketone supplement, 2) GH and placebo, 3) a saline infusion with the ketone supplement, or 4) placebo (saline infusion and placebo supplement). The study uses advanced PET/CT imaging, indirect calorimetry, and tissue biopsies to measure how ketones influence fat breakdown, glucose uptake, and energy expenditure. By understanding these mechanisms, the study aims to clarify whether oral ketone supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity and energy metabolism - findings that could be relevant for common conditions such as overweight, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.