Dextrose

Dextrose is an isomer of glucose, often referred to as grape sugar. It is a monosaccharide commonly used in the food industry, which supplementation can positively affect sports achievements among physically active people.

Dextrose - what is it?

Dextrose, also called D-glucose, is a dextrorotatory version of glucose. It is also often referred to as grape sugar.

It is a monosaccharide, which is distinguished by a high glycemic index. After ingestion of dextrose, the amount of insulin secreted increases.

It is naturally produced by photosynthesis by green plants. In laboratory conditions, it can be obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis using glucose amylase or acids.

Interestingly, dextrose was first isolated from raisins in 1747 by a German chemist. In turn, grape sugar was discovered only 45 years later in grapes and was considered another form of monosaccharide.

Dextrose and glucose

Dextrose is a dextrorotatory version of glucose. It is an optical isomer of glucose, which means that these compounds differ only in spatial structure.

The terms 'dextrose' and 'glucose' are therefore often used interchangeably.

Dextrose - where does it occur?

Dextrose can naturally be found in: honey, flower nectars, fruit and juices made from them.

In turn, dextrose used in dietary supplements is most often obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of corn or potato starch.

Monosaccharide is also used to produce glucose syrup, which is characterized by less sweetness than pure dextrose and is commonly used in the food industry incl. in sweets, non-alcoholic beverages or bread and confectionery.

Properties of dextrose

Dextrose at an express pace can raise blood sugar levels and at the same time can stimulate the pancreas to secrete insulin, which task is to lower the concentration of sugar in the blood serum.

In addition, insulin can capture dextrose molecules and together with creatine or amino acids, transport them to the muscles and liver, where it can supplement glycogen stores. Therefore, dextrose is known for being an excellent transporter of creatine to the muscles. Thus, it is very popular among physically active people, especially those who train bodybuilding.

Moreover, monosaccharide consumed after training can contribute to accelerating the body's regeneration processes through the resynthesis of muscle glycogen. Dextrose can quickly replenish glycogen stores, and thus energy and indirectly help the development of muscle mass and strength and increase the efficiency of the body.

Because dextrose is distinguished by its absorption rate, it is often used in training supplements for athletes. This monosaccharide not only stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin, but also "wanders" to the muscles transports amino acids and creatine, which can affect muscle nutrition, and thus faster growth of muscle mass, increase efficiency, endurance and strength. Dextrose consumed before training can provide a powerful boost of energy to act.

When is it worth using dextrose?

Dextrose is distinguished by a high glycemic index and should not be used as a sugar replacement. Its excessive consumption may contribute to the occurrence of undesirable consequences.

It is recommended that dextrose be used by people who regularly engage in physical activity. However, also athletes is important moderation and compliance with the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the intake of the substance.

A safe, daily dose of dextrose is about 40-70 g of simple sugar in the form of powder dissolved in water. Higher values can be used by bodybuilding athletes, while lower ones - by people practicing endurance sports.

Dextrose can also be used by people suffering from hypoglycemia, as a quick remedy at the time of a sharp drop in sugar.

Dextrose supplementation, however, should be a short-term, periodic practice, not a long-term effect.

Side effects of dextrose

Dextrose should not be used by people who do not practice sports regularly.

Its excess can lead to damage to the pancreas, as well as mood swings, hypertension or diabetes.

Among non-training people, dextrose can also cause drowsiness and increase the risk of developing heart and nervous system diseases.

Excessive consumption of monosaccharides may also increase the risk of weight gain, as well as the development of overweight and obesity