What is Dextrose

Dextrose is a naturally occurring simple sugar that is found in high amounts in fruits, honey, and several carbohydrate rich foods. The chemical formula of dextrose is C₆H₁₂O₆. It is also found in the human body after carbohydrates are broken down, and is one of the prime sources of energy for the body and the healthy function of the human brain. In this article, we will discuss the properties of dextrose to help you gain a better understanding of what exactly it is.

Properties

A lot of people assume that glucose and dextrose are the same. However, it is important to know that dextrose is a type of glucose in its purest form. Also dextrose is derived from natural sources which is rare with the other varieties of L-glucose. Let's take a look at the features of dextrose.

Function in the Human Body
In the human body, dextrose performs several functions. As mentioned earlier, it is one of the prime sources of energy. When consumed, it is metabolized by the cells to keep the body active and the brain functioning. Further, bodybuilders usually take dextrose supplements after a workout as a source of carbohydrates and to increase muscle fullness and mass. When consumed, dextrose immediately raises insulin production in the body. This action further results in an increase in the blood flow towards the muscles, and also improves nutrient absorption. This means important nutrients for muscle building such as protein are quickly metabolized, leading to effective muscle development.

Sources
The prime dextrose sources include foods such as honey, fruits such as plums, apricots and dates, that consist of naturally occurring dextrose. Apart from this, other dextrose foods comprise pasta, potatoes, wheat, cornstarch, etc. These are the main sources from which dextrose is extracted and processed.

Uses
Dextrose is used in a variety of foods to increase their shelf life, and in baked goods so that they brown easily. Though less sweeter than sugar, it helps in a lot of other ways to preserve certain foods. It is also used in wines as it is known to enhance the fermentation process. The sweetness produced by dextrose lasts for a shorter period on the taste buds, which is why it alone cannot be used in food products. It has to be used along with sucrose so that the sweetness levels of the food are appropriate.

Precautions and Considerations
Dextrose when consumed in excess is usually stored as glycogen or fat in the body. If your body produces insulin well, this glycogen will be converted to energy when the dextrose levels in the body reduce. However, if you are a diabetic, you should be very careful about consuming dextrose. It has a high glycemic index at 100 that is unsafe for diabetics. Further, remember that at the end of it all, it is a simple sugar. Unlike complex carbohydrates, simple sugars are metabolized instantly, and when in excess, are stored in the body in the form of fat. However, a meal that is balanced with complex and simple carbohydrates will help maintain energy levels in the body and keep you healthy.

Though some may tout dextrose as unhealthy or healthier than table sugar, it is important to know that dextrose is a form of glucose, an excess of which is unhealthy for the body in the long run. Consuming any kind of food that consists of sugar, dextrose, or glucose, can result in unhealthy effects on the body, particularly obesity and diabetes. The idea is to consume such foods in moderation. Your body does require dextrose, no doubt, but you don't have to give it an excess. Just keep it to the required amount, follow a balanced diet, and your body will be just fine. Even the consumption of dextrose for bodybuilding should be monitored by dietitians or trainers.

Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.