The 'New Kid on the Block' for BHB Ketone Testing
May 21, 2026 - Dr. Steven Edelman, MD, an endocrinologist, diabetes
researcher, and nationally recognized educator who is the Founder and Medical
Director of Taking Control Of Your Diabetes® (TCOYD), recently posted an article
on Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (EDKA), a form of DKA that can occur even when blood
glucose levels are not significantly elevated.
The article highlights the importance of ketone monitoring, and when and how to test Ketones for DKA.
In addition to DKA Ketone Meters, there is a newer tool discussed in this context is urine β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) testing using XactBHB test strips, which measure ketone levels directly from a urine sample. These strips can be read visually using a color chart on the bottle or paired with a free smartphone app that provides a numeric result.
Compared to traditional blood ketone testing, this newer urine-based approach offers several practical advantages:
Pros
The article highlights the importance of ketone monitoring, and when and how to test Ketones for DKA.
In addition to DKA Ketone Meters, there is a newer tool discussed in this context is urine β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) testing using XactBHB test strips, which measure ketone levels directly from a urine sample. These strips can be read visually using a color chart on the bottle or paired with a free smartphone app that provides a numeric result.
Compared to traditional blood ketone testing, this newer urine-based approach offers several practical advantages:
Pros
· No meter required—just a test strip (and optionally a smartphone app for numeric results)
· Non-invasive, avoiding finger sticks
· Lower cost than blood ketone testing
· Long shelf life (approximately 24–36 months after opening)
Cons
· Requires a urine sample
Overall, urine BHB test strips represent a more accessible and convenient option for ketone monitoring, especially in situations where ease of use and affordability are key considerations.