Learn more about fruity breathincluding when your fruity breath should cause you to seek out medical attention.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Causes of Fruity Breath
Fruity breath is triggered by your metabolism.
In some cases, these chemicals can cause a fruity or acetone smell.
Verywell / Laura Porter
This process releases chemicals known as ketones, including acetone, which can cause a fruity smell.
In fact, having fruity or acetone-smelling breath is a reliable sign that your body has entered ketosis.
Ketones are also released when youre fasting.
Fruity breath is a common sign of DKA.
DKA can progress quite quickly once it begins.
However, the condition is more rare than DKA.
Its similar to DKA in that it can cause a diabetic coma or death if left untreated.
However, some buildup of ketones in the blood can occur with HHS, leading to fruity-smelling breath.
Liver Disease
In some cases, fruity breath has causes that are not related to ketones.
People with liver disease can experience fruity breath, but its a bit different.
Gum and mints may help mask the scent.
If you have diabetes and have glucose testing supplies on hand, check your blood sugar.
You should also test for ketones if you have any of the symptoms of DKA.
Call your doctor if your ketones are moderate or high.
If you are unable to test your blood sugar and ketones, go to the emergency room.
Remember to eat well-balanced meals spacedthroughout the day.
Staying hydrated and brushing your teeth thoroughly can help make the smell less noticeable.
If youre intentionally fasting or following a ketogenic diet, you should expect fruity breath.
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UChicago Medicine.Ketogenic diet: what are the risks?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About diabetic ketoacidosis.
MedlinePlus.Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome.
Merck Manual.Acute liver failure.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Chronic liver disease/cirrhosis.
