Does not work · Performance
Ketone esters
also: Exogenous ketones, ketone salts
Endurance performance up to about 50 minutes
Does not work
Well studied with no effect found. Still sold in large quantities.
A meta-analysis of randomised trials (Valenzuela et al., 2020) found no clear effect of ketone supplements on performance, from sprints to efforts of about 50 minutes, nor separately for ketone esters (g = −0.07) or ketone salts (g = −0.02). Whether ultra-endurance efforts are different is not yet settled.
- Dosage
- Not recommended
- Timing
- —
- Approx. price
- €100 or more per month
Watch out
A separate meta-analysis of ketone monoesters and ketone precursors reached the same conclusion for endurance performance.
Frequently asked questions about supplements
Does Ketone esters really work?
Does not work. Well studied with no effect found. Still sold in large quantities.
What does Ketone esters cost?
€100 or more per month
Basics first, then the tub
Supplements are called supplements because they add to something. Sleep, a protein intake that hits your protein calculator , a programme where you lift progressively heavier and enough food together do a hundred times more than the best-researched item on this list. Once those are in place, creatine, caffeine and vitamin D in winter are the three you can spend money on with a clear conscience — for less than ten euros a month combined.
Sources
- Valenzuela PL et al. (2020). Acute ketone supplementation and exercise performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 15(3):298-308. (meta-analysis)
More supplements in this category
Last updated: October 2026
This page summarises scientific research and is not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a liver, kidney or thyroid condition, discuss supplements with your doctor or pharmacist — even the innocent-looking ones.
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