ketogenic

adjective

ke·​to·​gen·​ic ˌkē-tō-ˈje-nik How to pronounce ketogenic (audio)
1
: producing or involved in the formation of ketone bodies
ketogenic amino acids
also : marked by the presence of ketone bodies
a ketogenic state
2
: of, relating to, or caused by a ketogenic diet
ketogenic weight loss
ketogenic meals

Examples of ketogenic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to devotees—especially followers of ketogenic and paleo diets or intermittent fasting—this intriguing combo boosts energy and concentration. Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 30 Apr. 2025 The brain benefits of a ketogenic or keto diet, which is high in fats, moderate in protein, and very low in carbohydrates, have been known for some time. New Atlas, 4 Mar. 2025 Establish a schedule: Establish a clear cycling schedule that suits your lifestyle, alternating between ketogenic and higher carbohydrate days. Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 15 Oct. 2024 Implement the keto phase: During the ketogenic phase, eat high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carbohydrate meals. Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 15 Oct. 2024 The vegetarian keto diet aspects of both the vegetarian and ketogenic (keto) diets into one nutritional plan. Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 3 Oct. 2024 Health 5 diet fads from the last 15 years that fizzled out Raw food, paleo, gluten-free, detox, and ketogenic: All of these diet fads withered when subjected to scientific scrutiny. Big Think, 24 June 2024 In sum, this diet plan consists of a combination of ketogenic meals and exercises. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 7 Jan. 2024 This drink combines collagen with MCT Oil Powder and electrolytes, providing an optimal energy boost and helping to maintain ketone levels for individuals following a ketogenic or low carb diet. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 13 July 2023

Word History

Etymology

keto- + -genic, probably after German ketogen

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ketogenic was in 1910

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ketogenic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ketogenic. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

ketogenic

adjective
ke·​to·​gen·​ic
ˌkēt-ō-ˈjen-ik
1
: producing or involved in the formation of ketone bodies
also : marked by the presence of ketone bodies
a ketogenic state
2
: of, relating to, or caused by a ketogenic diet
ketogenic weight loss

Medical Definition

ketogenic

adjective
ke·​to·​gen·​ic -ˈjen-ik How to pronounce ketogenic (audio)
1
: producing or involved in the formation of ketone bodies
It is known that a high protein diet causes the production of ketone bodies derived from lipid oxidation and ketogenic amino acids.Vania Mattoso Ribeiro et al., Demetra: Food, Nutrition & Health
also : marked by the presence of ketone bodies
ketogenic states
2
: of, relating to, or caused by a ketogenic diet
ketogenic weight reduction
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