Abstract: ?-hydroxy butyric acid in combination with ?-hydroxybutyrate salts are useful to induce ketosis, achieving blood ketone levels of (0.5-6.0 mmol/L), with or without dietary restriction, and without inducing harmfully high mineral loads in the blood. The combination of ?-hydroxy butyric acid and salt results in substantial improvements in metabolic bookmakers related to insulin resistance, diabetes, weight loss, and physical performance & endurance in a short period of time. Further, use of these supplements to achieve ketosis yields a significant elevation of blood ketones and reduction of blood glucose levels. These acid/salt mixtures are also useful for suppressing appetite, preventing epileptic seizures, and treating cancer.