Breathalyzer device measures fat burning on the run

A small study of overweight runners in Japan showed that a breathalyzer device provided an accurate measure of fat burning.

Fat-burning breathalyzerA small study of overweight runners in Japan showed that a breathalyzer device provided an accurate measure of fat burning among the subjects.

The device worked by measuring levels of acetone in the breath. Acetone levels increase in the blood when the body is breaking down fat, and the chemical is also expelled through the lungs.

The study, published in the Journal of Breath Research, involved a 14-day experiment on different fat-burning regimes carried out by Japanese women with a higher-than-average body mass index.

Scientists from the NTT Docomo Research Laboratories used a small portable device that uses AA batteries to measure the acetone levels, and found that fat loss among the women matched the results of the breath tests.

Researchers say the device could be a valuable tool for weight-related illnesses such as diabetes.

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

The best trainers in Canada under $150

We curated the best performance trainers under $150 to meet your 2024 running goals, while staying on budget