Evidence supporting the use of: Dextrose
For the health condition: Exercise

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Dextrose (a simple glucose sugar) is scientifically validated for use in supporting exercise, particularly for energy provision and recovery. During exercise, especially high-intensity or endurance activities, muscle glycogen stores are depleted. Dextrose, as a rapidly absorbed carbohydrate, quickly elevates blood glucose levels and stimulates insulin secretion, facilitating the uptake of glucose into muscle cells for immediate energy or glycogen replenishment.

Numerous studies demonstrate that consuming dextrose before, during, or after exercise can enhance endurance, delay fatigue, and accelerate recovery by replenishing muscle glycogen more efficiently compared to slower-digesting carbohydrates. For example, research published in the Journal of Applied Physiology and Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise consistently supports carbohydrate supplementation, including dextrose, for improved performance and recovery.

Dextrose is also commonly found in sports drinks and recovery formulas, both for its rapid absorption and palatability. The consensus among sports nutrition experts and organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine is that simple carbohydrates like dextrose are effective for supporting exercise when rapid energy or recovery is needed.

While individual responses can vary and overuse may have drawbacks (e.g., gastrointestinal discomfort), the evidence base for dextrose in exercise settings is robust, particularly for athletes or those engaging in prolonged or intense activity.

More about dextrose
More about Exercise

Other health conditions supported by dextrose

Body Building
Energy (lack of)
Exercise
Fatigue
Hypoglycemia

Products containing dextrose

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.