What is Dextrose?

Dextrose is a monosaccharide or simple sugar that is derived entirely from corn starch. It is about 20% less sweet than regular cane sugar, and is the main energy source in our body.

Where to find Dextrose:

Dextrose is found in a lot of our foods and is often used as a sweetener. Our bodies also manufacture it from carbohydrates, protein and fat.

Dextrose can also be referred to as:

Glucose, D-Glucose, Dextrose Monohydrate, Dextrose Anhydrous.


Why use Dextrose?

Dextrose is a very high Glycemic Index (GI) carbohydrate. This means it enters our system rapidly and stimulates a fast insulin response, also known as an ‘Insulin Spike’. Insulin is a very important hormone for anybody who trains or exercises. It transports vital nutrients such as glucose, protein, creatine and amino acids to the muscle cells where they are used accordingly.

Dextrose is therefore an excellent supplement for:

Pre-Exercise — Taken before exercise it can provide the body with almost instant energy. The insulin spike it creates makes it ideal for combining it with other pre-workout nutrients such as creatine, as it enables these nutrients to reach the muscle cells faster and fuel the body for optimal performance.

During-Exercise — Many leading sports drinks that are proven to improve performance when consumed during exercise, are basically water with added dextrose and flavouring. The dextrose provides valuable energy which can help offset fatigue. Post-Exercise — After exercise our bodies are crying out for a quality protein such as Whey Concentrate or Whey Isolate, in order to repair and build muscle tissue. The fastest way to get this protein to the muscle cells is to create an insulin spike. As we know, dextrose is perfect for this, so it is an ideal supplement to be consumed after exercise in conjunction with other vital nutrients such as Protein, Creatine and Amino Acids.


Why use Dextrose?

There are no real health benefits related to Dextrose supplementation. It is a sugar, so for the non-athlete there is no reason for taking Dextrose on a daily basis.

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Serving Size & Timing

As a pre-exercise supplement we would recommend consuming approximately 25-30g of Dextrose. During exercise its use is optional, but if you are adding it to a beverage we would suggest a figure in the region of 15-20g, to be consumed gradually throughout your exercise period. As a post-exercise supplement we would recommend immediately consuming approximately 50-75g of Dextrose. Alternatively take 25-35g of Dextrose post-exercise and combine with an equal or similar amount of Maltodextrin.

A BulkPowders.co.uk 75ml measure (level scoop) provides 51g of Dextrose powder.

Synergists

Due to its ability to create a rapid insulin spike, Dextrose is very effective when combined with Creatine, Amino Acids (in particular Glutamine) and Protein. It is now believed that a combination of Dextrose and Maltodextrin also makes the ideal post-exercise carbohydrate solution.

Safety

Dextrose intolerance has been noted in some users, this is however extremely rare. Some users have reported oily skin and spots as a result of Dextrose supplementation, however again this is fairly uncommon.

Toxicity

There is no known toxicity of Dextrose.

Bans/Restrictions for Use

There are no known bans or restrictions in regard to Dextrose supplementation.