Composition and use thereof

Abstract

A 3-hydroxybutyric acid / 3-hydroxybutyrate composition, comprising a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid / R-3-hydroxybutyrate of which the enantiomeric excess is greater than 50% and less than 100% and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid / S-3-hydroxybutyrate of which the enantiomeric excess is less than 50% and greater than 0%, or comprising a non-racemic mixture of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid / S-3-hydroxybutyrate of which the enantiomeric excess is greater than 50% and less than 100% and R-3-hydroxybutyric acid / R-3-hydroxybutyrate of which the enantiomeric excess is less than 50% and greater than 0%, the salt comprising sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. The composition effectively solves acid / salt load and gastrointestinal side effects associated with existing products, offers excellent taste comfort and a good ketogenic effect, and can better serve as a dietary or nutritional supplement.

Description

Composition and application thereof Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of nutritional products or dietary supplements, and particularly relates to a 3-hydroxybutyric acid composition and application thereof. Background Art

[0002] Currently, there is a growing demand for dietary or nutritional supplements aimed at improving individual health and reducing disease risk; athletes also use dietary or nutritional supplements to improve strength and performance.

[0003] Normally the human body relies on glucose for energy, but when the supply of glucose is insufficient to meet the body's energy needs, such as during prolonged exercise, hunger, or a lack of dietary carbohydrates, the body turns to consuming fat as fuel. Because the brain and central nervous system cannot directly use fat for energy, the liver produces ketone bodies from fatty acids as an alternative fuel, which are then released into the blood / plasma. Ketone bodies not only provide fuel for the brain, but are also used by skeletal and cardiac muscles. The metabolism of ketone bodies is associated with several beneficial effects, including anticonvulsant effects, enhanced brain metabolism, neuroprotection, muscle protection, and improved cognitive and physical performance. Based on the science-based improvement in the efficiency of cellular metabolism, managed through ketone supplementation, it can have beneficial effects on physical, cognitive and mental health, and have long-term effects on health against common avoidable diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes and cancer.

[0004] Despite the many health advantages of pursuing a ketogenic diet or lifestyle and maintaining a state of nutritional ketosis, significant barriers exist to achieving and maintaining ketosis. One of these barriers is the difficulty of transitioning to ketosis. The fastest endogenous pathway to ketosis, through depletion of the body's glucose reserves, is through fasting and exercise. This is physically and emotionally demanding, making it challenging for even the most motivated and disciplined individuals.

[0005] Numerous studies on exogenous ketones have shown that the ingestion of compounds that increase blood ketone body levels can provide various clinical benefits, including enhanced physical and cognitive performance and the treatment of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and epilepsy. Therefore, it is desirable to directly provide ketone bodies to humans or animals as an energy source. Dietary or nutritional supplements may contain carboxylic acids, such as β-hydroxybutyrate (also known as 3-hydroxybutyrate or BHB), which is one of the three major ketone bodies (i.e., acetoacetate, acetone, and BHB).

[0006] However, existing known ingestible exogenous ketone bodies have disadvantages that limit their use. β-Hydroxybutyrate, a source of exogenous ketones, is well known for its extremely acidic nature. Due to this acidity, the amount and concentration of β-Hydroxybutyrate that can be used in an ingestible form are limited. The acidity issue of D-BHB acid has been addressed in some applications by forming β-Hydroxybutyrate into sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium salts. However, while salts can address the acidity issue, the use of ketone salts is limited to very small amounts due to the accompanying salt overload that can lead to electrolyte imbalances. Besides small doses, the taste is also unpleasant. The aforementioned issues persist when simply physically mixing BHB acid and salts, and achieving a uniform mix is ​​difficult.

[0007] Therefore, in order to solve the problems of strong acidity of existing BHB acid and high salt load, gastrointestinal side effects, and unpleasant taste of existing BHB salts, it is necessary to further find substances that can effectively avoid or balance the above problems, so as to better maintain the ketosis state and better use them as ketogenic substances in diet or nutritional supplements. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In one aspect, the present invention provides a composition for increasing or maintaining ketone body levels in a subject, the composition comprising a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex with greater than 50% and less than 100% enantiomeric equivalents and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex with less than 50% and greater than 0% enantiomeric equivalents, or a non-racemic mixture of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex with greater than 50% and less than 100% enantiomeric equivalents and R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex with less than 50% and greater than 0% enantiomeric equivalents, wherein the salts include sodium salts, potassium salts, magnesium salts, and calcium salts.

[0009] In some embodiments, the composition contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, or contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate.

[0010] In some embodiments, the composition contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, or contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the composition contains 60% to 85% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 40% to 15% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, or contains 60% to 85% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 40% to 15% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the composition may contain 51-99%, 55-95%, 55-89%, 57-87%, 59-84%, 60-80% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate; and 1-49%, 5-45%, 11-45%, 13-43%, 16-41%, 20-40% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate. In some embodiments, the composition may contain 51-99%, 55-95%, 55-89%, 57-87%, 59-84%, 60-80% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate; and 1-49%, 5-45%, 11-45%, 13-43%, 16-41%, 20-40% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate.

[0013] When the non-racemic mixture of the present invention contains more R-enantiomer than S-enantiomer compared to the racemic mixture, it can provide a greater and / or faster ketogenic effect. Therefore, administering the R-enantiomer to a subject provides an additional amount and / or increased plasma level that can be used immediately by the body, for example, for energy production (e.g., as an alternative energy source to glucose). The presence of the S-enantiomer can modulate and prolong this effect.

[0014] The non-racemic mixture contains more of the S enantiomer to provide more controlled, gradual, prolonged and / or regulated ketogenesis compared to the racemic mixture or the composition enriched in the R enantiomer.

[0015] In contrast to compositions lacking the S-configuration, the non-racemic mixtures of the present invention contain an amount of the S-configuration enantiomer that can produce one or more desired effects in a subject. For example, administering the S-configuration together with the R-configuration can result in at least one of the following: (1) increased endogenous production of R-β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate; (2) endogenous conversion of S-β-hydroxybutyrate to one or both of R-β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate; (3) endogenous conversion of S-β-hydroxybutyrate to fatty acids and sterols; (4) prolonged ketosis; (5) metabolism of S-β-hydroxybutyrate that is independent of conversion to R-β-hydroxybutyrate and / or acetoacetate; and (6) decreased endogenous production of acetone during ketosis.

[0016] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, wherein the salt comprises one or more of a sodium salt, a potassium salt, a magnesium salt, and a calcium salt.

[0017] In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is a racemic mixture or a non-racemic mixture, including a racemic mixture or a non-racemic mixture of sodium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate, potassium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate, calcium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate, and magnesium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate.

[0018] In some embodiments, the non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 1-99 weight % of the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 10-80 weight % of the total weight of the composition.

[0019] In some embodiments, the non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 2-98 weight %, 5-90 weight %, 10-85 weight %, 18-82 weight %, 40-75 weight %, or 50-70 weight % of the total weight of the composition.

[0020] In one aspect, the present invention provides a composition for increasing or maintaining ketone body levels in a subject, the composition comprising a racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, wherein the salt includes sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium; and 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two.

[0021] In some embodiments, the salt of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, comprises one or more of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. The salts include sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate, potassium 3-hydroxybutyrate, magnesium 3-hydroxybutyrate, and calcium 3-hydroxybutyrate.

[0022] In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is a racemic mixture or a non-racemic mixture, including a racemic mixture or a non-racemic mixture of sodium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate, potassium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate, calcium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate, and magnesium R,S-β-hydroxybutyrate.

[0023] In some embodiments, the racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 1-99% by weight of the total composition. In some embodiments, the racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 20-80% by weight of the total composition.

[0024] In some embodiments, the racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 2-98 weight %, 5-90 weight %, 10-85 weight %, 18-82 weight %, 40-75 weight %, or 50-70 weight % of the total weight of the composition.

[0025] The racemic mixture contains equal amounts of the R and S enantiomers to provide enhanced ketogenesis that is not possible with either enantiomer alone. A racemic R,S enantiomer composition can advantageously provide a relatively rapid increase in blood ketone body levels primarily due to the R enantiomer component, while also providing a relatively longer-lasting, sustained increase in blood ketone body levels primarily due to the S enantiomer component. Such a composition can effectively and relatively quickly help a subject induce ketosis while providing a sustained and prolonged ketone body effect, wherein the R and S enantiomers together provide a synergistic ketogenic benefit to the subject.

[0026] In contrast to compositions lacking the S-configuration, the racemic mixtures of the present invention contain an amount of the S-configuration enantiomer that can produce one or more desired effects in a subject. For example, administering the S-configuration together with the R-configuration can result in at least one of the following: (1) increased endogenous production of R-β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate; (2) endogenous conversion of S-β-hydroxybutyrate to one or both of R-β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate; (3) endogenous conversion of S-β-hydroxybutyrate to fatty acids and sterols; (4) prolonged ketosis; (5) metabolism of S-β-hydroxybutyrate that is independent of conversion to R-β-hydroxybutyrate and / or acetoacetate; and (6) decreased endogenous production of acetone during ketosis.

[0027] The pure R configuration administered to a subject can be quickly utilized by the body, for example, for energy production (e.g., as an alternative energy source to glucose). Mixed with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two, this provides an optimized or acceptable electrolyte load combined with rapid absorption, which provides greater and / or more stable ketogenesis. The S-configuration enantiomer can provide a more controlled, gradual, prolonged and / or regulated ketogenesis. In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two, contains not less than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two, and not more than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two; or contains more than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two, and less than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two.

[0028] In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, or 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0029] In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, or 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0030] In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, contains 60% to 85% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 40% to 15% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, or 60% to 85% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 40% to 15% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0031] In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, contains 51-99%, 55-95%, 55-89%, 57-87%, 59-84%, 60-80% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof; 1-49%, 5-45%, 11-45%, 13-43%, 16-41%, 20-40% of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. In some embodiments, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, contains 51-99%, 55-95%, 55-89%, 57-87%, 59-84%, 60-80% of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof; and 1-49%, 5-45%, 11-45%, 13-43%, 16-41%, 20-40% of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0032] In some embodiments, the composition is prepared as a solid preparation or a liquid preparation.

[0033] In another aspect, the present invention provides a dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutraceutical comprising the above composition. In some embodiments, the composition is in the form of a suppository, tablet, pill, granule, powder, film, capsule, beverage, aerosol, elixir, tincture, tonic, liquid suspension, or syrup.

[0034] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the composition is 0.1-95%. In other embodiments, the weight ratio of the composition is 1-50%.

[0035] In another aspect, the present invention provides use of the above composition in preparing a dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutritional product.

[0036] In some embodiments, the composition is used as a ketogenic substance.

[0037] The composition of the present invention is odorless and effectively avoids issues such as acidity, hygroscopicity, salt loading, intestinal side effects, and electrolyte imbalance. Compared to other exogenous ketones, the composition has superior adaptability. On the one hand, the composition of the present invention addresses the strong acidity, intestinal side effects, and high hygroscopicity of BHB acid, while also addressing the electrolyte imbalance caused by the high salt loading of BHB salt. Therefore, as a ketogenic substance, it has broad application prospects in the dietary supplement and food fields. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] FIG1A is an XRPD pattern of the R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex of the present invention.

[0039] FIG1B is an XRPD pattern of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex of the present invention.

[0040] FIG1C is an XRPD pattern of the S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex of the present invention.

[0041] FIG2 is an infrared spectrum (IR) of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex of the present invention.

[0042] FIG3 is a Raman spectrum of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex of the present invention.

[0043] FIG4 is a TGA diagram of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex of the present invention.

[0044] FIG5 is a DSC spectrum of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the embodiments thereof. Although the present invention will be described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it should be understood that they are not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the present invention is intended to cover substitutions, modifications and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. In addition, in the detailed description of the present invention, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, components and other features are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of the present invention.

[0046] As used herein, the term "or" is intended to include "and" and "or." In other words, the term "or" can also be replaced with "and / or."

[0047] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0048] As used herein, the term "comprises" or "includes" or variations thereof refers to instances where the term is used in its non-limiting sense, meaning that items following the term are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. It also includes the more restrictive verbs 'consisting essentially of' and 'consisting of.'

[0049] As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately" provide flexibility in numerical values ​​by providing that a given value may be "slightly higher" or "less than" an endpoint. The flexibility of this term can be determined by the specific variables and is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to determine based on experience and the relevant description herein.

[0050] "β-Hydroxybutyrate," also known as 3-hydroxybutyric acid, βHB, or BHB, refers to a compound with the general formula: CH3CH2OHCH2COOH. "β-Hydroxybutyrate derivatives" refer to compounds with the following chemical structure: wherein X is hydrogen, a metal ion, an amino cation (e.g., an amino acid), or the like.

[0051] When X is hydrogen, the compound is β-hydroxybutyric acid. When X is a metal ion or an amino cation, the compound is β-hydroxybutyrate. The aforementioned compound can be in any desired physical form, such as crystals, powders, solids, liquids, solutions, suspensions, or gels.

[0052] As used herein, the term "administer" refers to the process of delivering a disclosed complex or active ingredient to a subject. The complexes of the present invention can be administered by various suitable means to achieve the desired effect, including oral, intragastric, and parenteral (referring to intravenous and intraarterial and other suitable parenteral routes), etc. The complexes of the present invention can be administered to a subject at a therapeutically effective dose and / or at a frequency to induce or maintain ketosis. In some embodiments, a single dose will include an amount of about 1-50 grams, or about 2-40 grams, or about 5-30 grams, or about 10-20 grams, about 0.5-25 grams, or about 0.75-20 grams, or about 1-15 grams, or about 1.5-12 grams. In some embodiments, multiple doses of the complex are administered over a period of time. The frequency of administration of the complex can vary depending on any of a variety of factors, such as the time since the previous treatment, the purpose of the treatment, etc. The duration of complex administration (e.g., the time period over which the agent is administered) can vary depending on any of a variety of factors, including the subject's response, the desired therapeutic effect, etc.

[0053] As used herein, the term "effective amount" refers to the amount required to achieve the effects taught herein. The amount to be administered can vary depending on factors such as individual sensitivity, individual age, sex, and weight, individual idiosyncrasies, and the like. In accordance with the present disclosure, a suitable single dose size is a dose that, when administered one or more times over an appropriate time period, achieves the effects described above.

[0054] As used herein, the term "physiologically acceptable" refers to pharmaceutically, physiologically, dietary and / or nutritionally acceptable, and refers to those compositions or agents, materials or combinations of compositions and / or dosage forms thereof that are within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for contact with the tissues of humans and animals, compatible with the other ingredients of the composition, without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response or other problems or complications, and commensurate with a reasonable benefit / risk ratio.

[0055] The compositions of the present invention can be used to prepare ketogenic substances for increasing or maintaining blood ketone levels in a subject, increasing ketone body levels in a subject, including inducing and / or maintaining elevated ketone body levels (e.g., ketosis) at a desired level in a subject to which it is administered. "Ketosis" refers to a subject's blood ketone level in the range of about 0.5 mmol / L to about 16 mmol / L. Ketosis can improve mitochondrial function, reduce the production of reactive oxygen species, reduce inflammation, and increase the activity of neurotrophic factors. "Keto adaptation" refers to long-term nutritional ketosis (>1 week) to achieve sustained, non-pathological "mild ketosis" or "therapeutic ketosis." In some cases, "elevated ketone body levels" may not mean that the subject is in a state of "clinical ketosis," but still has an elevated ketone supply for generating energy and / or achieving other beneficial effects of ketone bodies.

[0056] Administration of the compositions of the present invention can increase or maintain blood ketone levels in a subject, acting as a ketogenic substance, and produce one or more desired effects, including but not limited to appetite suppression, weight loss, fat loss, lowered blood sugar levels, improved mental alertness, increased physical energy, improved cognitive function, reduced traumatic brain injury, reduced effects of diabetes, improved neurological disorders, reduced cancer, reduced inflammation, anti-aging, anti-glycation, reduced epileptic seizures, improved mood, increased strength, increased muscle mass, or improved body composition.

[0057] When the non-racemic mixture of the present invention contains more R-enantiomer than S-enantiomer compared to the racemic mixture, it can provide a greater and / or faster ketogenic effect. Therefore, administering the R-enantiomer to a subject provides an additional amount and / or increased plasma level that can be used immediately by the body, for example, for energy production (e.g., as an alternative energy source to glucose). The presence of the S-enantiomer can modulate and prolong this effect.

[0058] The non-racemic mixture contains more of the S enantiomer to provide more controlled, gradual, prolonged and / or regulated ketogenesis compared to the racemic mixture or the composition enriched in the R enantiomer.

[0059] In contrast to compositions lacking the S-configuration, the non-racemic mixtures of the present invention contain an amount of the S-configuration enantiomer that can produce one or more desired effects in a subject. For example, administering the S-configuration together with the R-configuration can result in at least one of the following: (1) increased endogenous production of R-β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate; (2) endogenous conversion of S-β-hydroxybutyrate to one or both of R-β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate; (3) endogenous conversion of S-β-hydroxybutyrate to fatty acids and sterols; (4) prolonged ketosis; (5) metabolism of S-β-hydroxybutyrate that is independent of conversion to R-β-hydroxybutyrate and / or acetoacetate; and (6) decreased endogenous production of acetone during ketosis.

[0060] The racemic mixture contains equal amounts of the R and S enantiomers to provide enhanced ketogenesis that is not possible with either enantiomer alone. A racemic R,S enantiomer composition can advantageously provide a relatively rapid increase in blood ketone body levels primarily due to the R enantiomer component, while also providing a relatively longer-lasting, sustained increase in blood ketone body levels primarily due to the S enantiomer component. Such a composition can effectively and relatively quickly help a subject induce ketosis while providing a sustained and prolonged ketone body effect, wherein the R and S enantiomers together provide a synergistic ketogenic benefit to the subject.

[0061] The pure R-configuration administered to a subject can be rapidly utilized by the body, for example, for energy production (e.g., as an alternative energy source to glucose). Combined with 3-hydroxybutyrate, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, this provides an optimized or acceptable electrolyte load combined with rapid absorption, which provides greater and / or more stable ketogenesis. The S-configuration enantiomer can provide a more controlled, gradual, prolonged, and / or regulated ketogenesis.

[0062] In the present invention, the administration form of the composition is provided, involving a liquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient, solvent, or encapsulating material. Each carrier must be "acceptable" in the sense that it is compatible with the other ingredients of the composition and is not harmful to the subject, i.e., suitable for consumption or nutritionally acceptable. Such carriers include non-toxic, compatible substances commonly used in health foods and dietary supplements, as well as pharmaceutical preparations, such as sugars, starches, cellulose and its derivatives, powdered tragacanth gum, malt, gelatin, talc, oils, glycols, polyols, esters, agar, alginic acid, pyrogen-free water, isotonic saline, and the like.

[0063] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be administered with other supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, nootropics, and other supplements known in the art. Examples of vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements that can be added to the ketogenic composition include one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D3, vitamin E, niacin, vitamin B6, folic acid, 5-MTHF, vitamin B12, iodine, zinc, copper, manganese, chromium, caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, methyltaxine, huperzine A, epicatechin, and enzymes.

[0064] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be provided in solid or powder form. Such solid form compositions can be formulated to have sufficient ease of handling and manufacturability. The complex can be provided in liquid form, such as an injection or oral spray for rapid delivery and absorption. The liquid form can include one or more liquid carriers, such as water, ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, etc.

[0065] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may be administered as a suppository, tablet, pill, granule, powder, film, capsule, beverage, aerosol, alcohol, tincture, tonic, liquid suspension, or syrup.

[0066] The compositions of the present invention can be prepared into food and beverage products for human consumption, as well as nutritional supplements, energy treatments, medical treatments, or strength and / or endurance sports supplements, as ketogenic substances, thereby providing a dietary source of exogenous ketones to increase or maintain blood ketone levels in a subject. The resulting products can exhibit reduced acidity, lower hygroscopicity, improved taste, better palatability, a uniform appearance, and a well-balanced ketogenic effect, without the problems of intestinal side effects, electrolyte imbalance, or high salt load.

[0067] The following examples are illustrative of selected embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Example 1. Preparation of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0068] In a 1L reaction flask, 110 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid, 110 g of sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate, and 440 mL of dichloromethane were added, heated to 40°C, stirred to dissolve, cooled to 0-10°C, and the precipitated solid was filtered and dried at 40°C to obtain 150 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 2. Preparation of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0069] In a 1L reaction flask, 104 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid, 116 g of sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate, and 440 mL of acetone were added, heated to 60°C, stirred to dissolve, cooled to 0-10°C, and the solid precipitated. The solid was filtered and dried at 55°C to obtain 140 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 3. Preparation of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0070] 200 mL of water and 20 g of sodium hydroxide were added to a 1 L reaction flask, stirred to dissolve, cooled to below 25°C, and then 104 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid was added. After stirring for half an hour, water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After distillation to near dryness, 200 mL of dichloromethane was added, stirred, cooled to 0-10°C, and solids precipitated. The solids were filtered and dried at 40°C to obtain 75 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex. Example 4. Preparation of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex

[0071] 200 mL of water and 20 g of sodium hydroxide were added to a 1 L reaction flask, stirred to dissolve, cooled to below 25°C, and then 104 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid was added. After stirring for half an hour, water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After distillation to near dryness, 200 mL of acetone was added, stirred, cooled to 0-10°C, and solids precipitated. The solids were filtered and dried at 55°C to obtain 98 g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex. Example 5. Preparation of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex

[0072] In a 1L reaction flask, 60g of methyl R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 360mL of water, and 24g of catalyst were added. The mixture was heated at 90-95°C for 24 hours until the reaction was complete. The mixture was cooled to room temperature, the catalyst was filtered off, and the filtrate was added with 9g of sodium hydroxide in 50mL of water. The water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After the mixture was evaporated to near dryness, 100mL of dichloromethane was added, the mixture was stirred, and the mixture was cooled to 0-10°C. The solid precipitated, filtered, and dried at 40°C to obtain 40g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 6. Preparation of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0073] In a 1L reaction flask, 60g of methyl R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 360mL of water, and 24g of catalyst were added. The mixture was heated at 90-95°C for 24 hours until the reaction was complete. The mixture was cooled to room temperature and the catalyst was filtered off. The filtrate was added with 9g of sodium hydroxide in 50mL of water. The water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After the mixture was evaporated to near dryness, 100mL of acetone was added. The mixture was stirred and cooled to 0-10°C. The solid precipitated, filtered, and dried at 55°C to obtain 50g of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 7. Preparation of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0074] In a 1L reaction flask, 110 g of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, 110 g of sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate, and 440 mL of dichloromethane were added, heated to 40°C, stirred to dissolve, cooled to 0-10°C, and the precipitated solid was filtered and dried at 40°C to obtain 155 g of a 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 8. Preparation of a 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0075] Add 200 mL of water and 20 g of sodium hydroxide to a 1 L reaction flask, stir and dissolve, cool to below 25°C, add 104 g of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, stir for half an hour, remove water by vacuum distillation, evaporate to near dryness, add 200 mL of acetone, stir, cool to 0-10°C, precipitate solid, filter, and dry at 60°C to obtain 102 g of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 9. Preparation of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0076] In a 1L reaction flask, 60g of methyl 3-hydroxybutyrate, 360mL of water, and 24g of catalyst were added. The mixture was heated at 90-100°C for 24 hours until the reaction was complete. The mixture was cooled to room temperature, and the catalyst was filtered off. The filtrate was added with 9g of sodium hydroxide in 50mL of water. The water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After the mixture was evaporated to near dryness, 100mL of acetone was added, stirred, and cooled to 0-10°C. The solid precipitated, filtered, and dried at 60°C to obtain 42g of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 10. Preparation of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0077] In a 1 L reaction flask, 100 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid, 100 g of sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate, and 400 mL of dichloromethane were added, heated to 40°C, stirred to dissolve, cooled to 0-10°C, and the precipitated solid was filtered and dried at 40°C to obtain 130 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 11. Preparation of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0078] In a 1L reaction flask, 104 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid, 116 g of sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate, and 440 mL of acetone were added, heated to 60°C, stirred to dissolve, cooled to 0-10°C, and the precipitated solid was filtered and dried at 55°C to obtain 138 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 12. Preparation of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex

[0079] 200 mL of water and 20 g of sodium hydroxide were added to a 1 L reaction flask, stirred to dissolve, cooled to below 25°C, and then 104 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid was added. After stirring for half an hour, the water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After distillation to near dryness, 200 mL of dichloromethane was added, stirred, and cooled to 0-10°C. The solid precipitated, filtered, and dried at 40°C to obtain 73 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex. Example 13. Preparation of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex

[0080] 200 mL of water and 20 g of sodium hydroxide were added to a 1 L reaction flask, stirred to dissolve, cooled to below 25°C, and then 104 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid was added. After stirring for half an hour, the water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After distillation to near dryness, 200 mL of acetone was added, stirred, and cooled to 0-10°C. The solid precipitated, filtered, and dried at 55°C to obtain 98 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex. Example 14. Preparation of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex

[0081] In a 1 L reaction flask, 60 g of methyl S-3-hydroxybutyrate, 360 mL of water, and 24 g of a catalyst were added. The reaction was heated at 90-95° C. for 24 hours until the reaction was complete. The reaction was cooled to room temperature, and the catalyst was filtered off. The filtrate was added with a 50 mL aqueous solution of 9 g of sodium hydroxide. The water was removed by distillation under reduced pressure. After evaporation to near dryness, 100 mL of dichloromethane was added, stirred, and cooled to 0-10° C. The solid precipitated, filtered, and dried at 40° C. to obtain 42 g of a complex of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid and sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate. Example 15. Preparation of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex: 60 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid methyl ester, 360 mL of water, and 24 g of catalyst were added to a 1 L reaction flask, heated at 90-95°C for 24 hours until the reaction was complete, cooled to room temperature, and the catalyst was filtered off. The filtrate was added with 9 g of sodium hydroxide in 50 mL of aqueous solution, and the water was removed by vacuum distillation. After evaporation to near dryness, 100 mL of acetone was added, stirred, cooled to 0-10°C, and a solid precipitated. The solid was filtered and dried at 55°C to obtain 48 g of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium complex. Example 16. X-ray powder diffraction

[0082] The X-ray powder diffraction pattern was obtained using a SmartLab 3KW X-ray powder diffractometer under the following conditions: diffraction line: Cu_K-beta (40KV, 40mA), scanning rate: 20.00deg / min, scanning range: 3° to 60°. The XRPD pattern of the complex obtained in Example 1 is shown in FIG1A , and the XRPD data obtained in Example 1 are shown in Table 1A . The XRPD results of the complexes obtained in Examples 2-6 are basically consistent with those in Example 1. Table 1A

[0083] The XRPD pattern of the complex obtained in Example 7 is shown in FIG1B , and the XRPD data obtained in Example 7 are shown in Table 1. The XRPD results of the complexes obtained in Examples 8-9 are basically consistent with those in Example 7. Table 1

[0084] The XRPD pattern of the complex obtained in Example 10 is shown in FIG1C , and the XRPD data obtained in Example 10 are shown in Table 1C . The XRPD results of the complexes obtained in Examples 11-15 are basically consistent with those in Example 10. Table 1C Example 17. Infrared spectroscopy

[0085] The composite of Example 1 was analyzed by infrared spectroscopy using a Shimadzu Fourier transform attenuated total reflection infrared spectrometer. FIG2 is an infrared spectrum (IR) of the composite of Example 1. The composite has a wavelength of 1715 cm -1 、1452cm -1 、1414cm -1 、1368cm -1 、1306cm -1 、1217cm -1 、1148cm -1 、1094cm -1 、1057cm -1 , 980cm -1 、853cm -1 , 710cm -1 、573cm -1 、467cm -1 The IR results of the complexes prepared in Examples 2-15 are basically consistent with those in Example 1. Example 18. Determination of sodium content and BHB content

[0086] The sodium content of the complex of Example 1 was measured using ICP-MS according to the second method of GB 5009.268-2016 and the third method of GB 5009.91-2017, and the 3-hydroxybutyric acid content of the complex was determined by HPLC. The test results were consistent with the structure of the complex. The sodium content and 3-hydroxybutyric acid content of the complexes prepared in Examples 2-15 were consistent with those in Example 1. Example 19. NMR ( 1 H / 13 C) Determination

[0087] The complex of Example 1 was recorded in an AVIII-HD-400 spectrometer. 1 H NMR and 13 C NMR spectrum: 1H NMR (400MHz, DMSO-d6) δ7.61 (s, 1H), 3.92 (h, J = 6.2Hz, 1H), 2.17 (d, J = 6.5Hz, 2H), 1.04 (d, J = 6.3Hz, 3H). 13 C NMR (101 MHz, DMSO-d6) δ 176.43, 64.21, 45.62, 23.64. The complex prepared in Example 2-15 has a C NMR of 101 MHz, DMSO-d6, δ 176.43, 64.21, 45.62, 23.64. 1 H / 13 C) The results are basically consistent with those in Example 1. Example 20. Elemental Analysis

[0088] Elemental analysis of the complex of Example 10 showed: C 41.7%, H 6.5%. The elemental analysis results of the other examples were also consistent with those of Example 10, and the results were consistent with the structure of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex. Example 21. Raman spectroscopy

[0089] The characteristic Raman spectrum of the composite can be obtained by Raman spectroscopy analysis. -1 、2929.23cm -1 、2912.39cm -1 、2872.19cm -1 、2668.47cm -1 、1619.34cm -1 、1445.99cm -1 、1347.96cm -1 、1213.01cm -1 、1050.15cm -1 、962.24cm -1 、918.94cm -1 、845.50cm -1 、65.80cm -1 There is a characteristic absorption peak at ±2cm -1The error tolerance is ±2 cm-1. The Raman spectra of the composites prepared in Examples 2-6 are basically consistent with those in Example 1. Figure 3 is the Raman spectrum of the composite of Example 7. The composite of Example 7 has characteristic absorption peaks at 435.61 cm-1, 860.27 cm-1, 929.06 cm-1, 972.40 cm-1, 1058.42 cm-1, 1086.36 cm-1, 1224.66 cm-1, 1360.71 cm-1, 1408.20 cm-1, 1453.85 cm-1, 1629.35 cm-1, 2885.95 cm-1, 2910.89 cm-1, 2942.27 cm-1, and 2980.01 cm-1, with an error tolerance of ±2 cm-1. The Raman spectra of the composites prepared in Examples 8-9 are basically consistent with those in Example 7. The Raman spectrum of the composite of Example 10 is at 472.68 cm -1 、858.58cm -1 、912.63cm -1 、929.06cm -1 、972.40cm -1 、1060.07cm -1 、1089.64cm -1 、1151.72cm -1 、1223.05cm -1 、1359.12cm -1 、1456.99cm -1 、1629.35cm -1 、2882.01cm -1 、2925.81cm -1 、2939.66cm -1 、2978.71cm -1 There are characteristic absorption peaks at ±2cm -1 The error tolerance of , the Raman spectra of the composites prepared in Examples 11-15 are basically consistent with those in Example 10. Example 22. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

[0090] The TGA results of the composite of Example 1 showed that the composite had a weight loss of 46.23% when heated from 25°C to 260°C and a weight loss of 11.09% when heated from 260°C to 300°C, corresponding to the endothermic peaks at 225.6°C and 276.9°C, respectively. The TGA results of the composites prepared in Examples 2-6 were basically consistent with those in Example 1. Figure 4 is a TGA graph of the composite of Example 7, which showed a weight loss of 2.02% when heated from 23.9°C to 50.0°C. The TGA results of the composites prepared in Examples 8-9 were basically consistent with those in Example 7. The TGA results of the composite of Example 10 showed that the composite had a weight loss of 0.19% when heated from 23.8°C to 90.0°C. The TGA results of the composites prepared in Examples 11-15 were basically consistent with those in Example 10. Example 23. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

[0091] The DSC analysis of the composite of Example 1 showed that it contained an endothermic peak at 120.01°C ± 3°C. The DSC spectra of the composites prepared in Examples 2-6 were substantially consistent with those of Example 1. Figure 5 shows the DSC spectrum of the composite of Example 7, which contained an endothermic peak at 117.20°C ± 3°C. The DSC spectra of the composites prepared in Examples 8-9 were substantially consistent with those of Example 7. The DSC analysis of the composite of Example 10 showed that it contained an endothermic peak at 120.23°C ± 3°C. The DSC spectra of the composites prepared in Examples 11-15 were substantially consistent with those of Example 10.

[0092] The R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate potassium, R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate calcium, R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate magnesium, S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate potassium, S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate calcium, S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate magnesium, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate potassium, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate calcium, and 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate magnesium of the present invention can be prepared and characterized using methods similar to the preparation and characterization of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate sodium, S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate calcium, S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate magnesium, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate potassium, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate calcium, and 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate magnesium.

[0093] The moisture content of the R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex is significantly lower than that of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid, sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate, and a mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid and sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate; the moisture content of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex is significantly lower than that of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate, and a mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid and sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate; the moisture content of the S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex is significantly lower than that of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid, sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate, S-3-hydroxybutyric acid and a mixture of sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate, which can increase the application scenarios of the complex products.

[0094] The stability of the R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate complex is very high, significantly better than R-3-hydroxybutyric acid and a mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid and sodium R-3-hydroxybutyrate; the stability of the 3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate complex is very high, significantly better than 3-hydroxybutyric acid and a mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid and sodium 3-hydroxybutyrate; the stability of the S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·Sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate complex is very high, significantly better than S-3-hydroxybutyric acid and a mixture of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid and sodium S-3-hydroxybutyrate.

[0095] The following describes exemplary non-racemic mixtures of R-3-hydroxybutyrate, R-3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyrate for increasing ketone levels in a subject, including inducing and / or maintaining a ketogenic state in a subject to which they are administered. Salts include sodium salts, potassium salts, magnesium salts, and calcium salts. From the perspective of the embodiments, what is important is the percentage or ratio of the R and S enantiomers. When the non-racemic mixture contains more of the R enantiomer, the development of ketosis is accelerated at a given dose compared to the racemic mixture at the same dose. On the other hand, including the S enantiomer provides a longer ketosis state and / or other benefits as disclosed herein. When the non-racemic mixture includes less of the R enantiomer, the onset of ketosis can be delayed for a given dose compared to the racemic mixture at the same dose. On the other hand, including the S enantiomer provides a longer ketosis state and / or other benefits as disclosed herein. Example 24

[0096] A non-racemic mixture is prepared by combining R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide greater than 50% and less than 100% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and less than 50% and greater than 0% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate. Because the non-racemic mixture contains more of the R enantiomer, the onset of ketosis is accelerated at a given dose compared to the same dose of the racemic mixture. Including the S enantiomer provides a longer ketosis state and / or other benefits as disclosed herein.

[0097] The non-racemic mixture is prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide greater than 50% and less than 100% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and less than 50% and greater than 0% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate. Because the non-racemic mixture includes less of the R-configured enantiomer, the onset of ketosis can be delayed for a given dose compared to the same dose of the racemic mixture. On the other hand, including the S-configured enantiomer provides a longer ketosis state and / or other benefits as disclosed herein. Example 25

[0098] A non-racemic mixture is prepared by combining R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 51% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 49% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate. Because the non-racemic mixture contains more of the R enantiomer, the onset of ketosis is accelerated at a given dose compared to the same dose of the racemic mixture. Including the S enantiomer, on the other hand, provides a longer ketosis state and / or other benefits as disclosed herein.

[0099] A non-racemic mixture is prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 51% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 49% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate. Because the non-racemic mixture includes less of the R-configured enantiomer, the onset of ketosis can be delayed for a given dose compared to the same dose of the racemic mixture. On the other hand, including the S-configured enantiomer provides a longer ketosis state and / or other benefits as disclosed herein. Example 26

[0100] A non-racemic mixture is prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 55% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 45% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate. A non-racemic mixture is prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 55% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 45% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate. Example 27

[0101] A non-racemic mixture was prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 57% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 43% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate. The mixture was prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 57% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 43% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate. Example 28

[0102] The non-racemic mixture is prepared by mixing R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate to provide 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97% or 98% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3% or 2% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate. To provide 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97% or 98% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3% or 2% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate. Example 29

[0103] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate in an amount of 1-99% by weight of the total composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as desired. Example 30

[0104] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, accounting for 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 31

[0105] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, accounting for 10% by weight of the total composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 32

[0106] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, accounting for 40% by weight of the total composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 33

[0107] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, accounting for 70% by weight of the total composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 34

[0108] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, accounting for 80% by weight of the total composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 35

[0109] A composition is prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof to provide a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate in an amount of 5%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 55%, 60%, 70%, 85%, 90%, 92%, 94%, 95%, 96%, or 97% by weight of the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as desired. Example 36

[0110] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the foregoing examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide greater than 50% and less than 100% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and less than 50% and greater than 0% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide greater than 50% and less than 100% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and less than 50% and greater than 0% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 37

[0111] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the foregoing examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 51% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 49% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 51% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 49% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 38

[0112] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 55% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 45% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 55% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 45% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 39

[0113] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 60% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 40% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 60% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 40% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 40

[0114] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding embodiments with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 90% or 95% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configuration 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 10% or 5% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configuration 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 90% or 95% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configuration 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 10% or 5% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configuration 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0115] The following describes exemplary compositions of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, 3-hydroxybutyrate, a racemic mixture, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid, R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid and S-3-hydroxybutyrate for increasing ketone levels in a subject, including inducing and / or maintaining a ketogenic state in a subject to which they are administered. Salts include sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium salts. Example 41

[0116] The composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 1-99% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 42

[0117] A composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 2% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 43

[0118] The composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 10% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 44

[0119] A composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 40% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 45

[0120] The composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 75% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 46

[0121] The composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 80% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 47

[0122] The composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 98% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as required. Example 48

[0123] A composition is prepared by mixing 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate of the present invention with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 5% by weight, 20% by weight, 30% by weight, 40% by weight, 55% by weight, 60% by weight, 70% by weight, 85% by weight, 90% by weight, 92% by weight, 94% by weight, 95% by weight, 96% by weight, or 97% by weight of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the amount of 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof is provided as needed. Example 49

[0124] Prepared by mixing the racemic mixture of any of the foregoing examples, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide not less than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and not more than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide a mixture comprising greater than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and less than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 50

[0125] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the foregoing examples, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 51% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 49% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 51% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 49% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 51

[0126] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the foregoing examples, or pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 55% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 45% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 55% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 45% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 52

[0127] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the foregoing examples, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 60% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 40% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Or to provide 60% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 40% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof. Example 53

[0128] Prepared by mixing the non-racemic mixture of any of the preceding examples, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, to provide 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 90%, or 95% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 10%, or 5% enantiomeric equivalents of S-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, and 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 10%, or 5% enantiomeric equivalents of R-configured 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0129] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art may make various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to these embodiments without departing from the principles and purpose of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A composition for increasing or maintaining ketone body levels in a subject, characterized in that The composition comprises a non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate with an enantiomeric equivalent of greater than 50% and less than 100% and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with an enantiomeric equivalent of less than 50% and greater than 0%, or a non-racemic mixture of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate with an enantiomeric equivalent of greater than 50% and less than 100% and R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate with an enantiomeric equivalent of less than 50% and greater than 0%, and the salts include sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

2. The composition according to claim 1, characterized in that The composition contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, or contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The composition contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, or contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate.

4. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The composition comprises 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof, or a mixture of the two, wherein the salt comprises one or more of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

5. The composition according to claim 4, characterized in that The 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or its salt or a mixture thereof is a racemic mixture or a non-racemic mixture.

6. The composition according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that The non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 1-99% by weight of the total amount of the composition.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that The non-racemic mixture of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate and S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 10-80% by weight of the total amount of the composition.

8. A composition for increasing or maintaining ketone body levels in a subject, characterized in that The composition comprises a racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate, wherein the salts include sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium; and 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or a salt thereof or a mixture of the two.

9. The composition according to claim 8, characterized in that The 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or its salt or a mixture of the two, the salt includes one or more of sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium.

10. The composition according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that The 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or its salt or a mixture thereof is a racemic mixture or a non-racemic mixture.

11. The composition according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that The racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 1-99% by weight of the total amount of the composition.

12. The composition according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that The racemic mixture of 3-hydroxybutyric acid·3-hydroxybutyrate, pure R-3-hydroxybutyric acid·R-3-hydroxybutyrate, or pure S-3-hydroxybutyric acid·S-3-hydroxybutyrate accounts for 10-80% by weight of the total amount of the composition.

13. The composition according to any one of claims 4 to 12, characterized in that The 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or its salt or a mixture of the two, contains not less than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two and not more than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two; or contains more than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two and less than 50% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two.

14. The composition according to any one of claims 4 to 13, characterized in that The 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or its salt or a mixture of the two, contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two, or contains 51% to 99% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two and 49% to 1% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two.

15. The composition according to any one of claims 4 to 14, characterized in that The 3-hydroxybutyric acid, or its salt or a mixture of the two, contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two, or contains 55% to 95% enantiomeric equivalents of S-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two and 45% to 5% enantiomeric equivalents of R-3-hydroxybutyric acid or its salt or a mixture of the two.

16. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that The composition is prepared as a solid preparation or a liquid preparation.

17. A dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutritional product, characterized in that A composition comprising the composition of any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutritional product according to claim 17, wherein: It is in the form of suppositories, tablets, pills, granules, powders, films, capsules, beverages, aerosols, spirits, tinctures, tonics, liquid suspensions, syrups.

19. The dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutritional product according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The weight ratio of the composition is 0.1-95%.

20. The dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutritional product according to any one of claims 17-10, wherein: The weight ratio of the composition is 1-50%.

21. Use of the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 120 in the preparation of a dietary supplement, food, beverage, or nutritional product.

22. The use according to claim 21, wherein the composition is a ketogenic substance.

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