Glucose tablets provide a rapid and effective way to raise blood sugar levels, particularly for individuals experiencing hypoglycemia. These tablets consist of pure glucose, a simple sugar the body quickly absorbs. They are a convenient, fast-acting carbohydrate source designed to counteract drops in blood glucose.
How Glucose Tablets Work
Glucose tablets deliver glucose directly into the bloodstream. Unlike complex carbohydrates, glucose does not require extensive digestion. When chewed and swallowed, glucose is rapidly absorbed through the mouth, stomach, and small intestine. This allows glucose to enter the circulatory system quickly, providing immediate energy. This speed helps alleviate low blood sugar symptoms more efficiently than other carbohydrate sources.
Expected Blood Sugar Increase
A typical glucose tablet contains about 4 grams of glucose. Consuming 4 grams can raise blood sugar levels by approximately 15 to 20 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) within 15 to 20 minutes. Individual responses vary, as the exact increase depends on several physiological factors. Monitoring blood sugar levels after consumption is important due to this variability.
What Affects Blood Sugar Response
Individual Physiology
A person’s metabolic rate, which dictates how quickly their body processes sugars, plays a role. Body weight and size are also relevant, as larger individuals might experience a smaller rise from the same dose. The starting blood sugar level also matters; very low levels might show a more pronounced increase.
External Factors
Insulin sensitivity, or how effectively the body’s cells respond to insulin, can impact glucose uptake. The presence of other food in the stomach can slow absorption, delaying its effect. Certain medications, particularly insulin and other diabetes medications, can alter how the body processes glucose.
Guidelines for Using Glucose Tablets
Glucose tablets are best used when experiencing hypoglycemia symptoms like shakiness, dizziness, confusion, or sweating, ideally after confirming low blood sugar with a meter. The “15-15 rule” is a recommended approach for treating low blood sugar. This involves taking 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate, typically 3 to 4 glucose tablets.
After consuming the glucose, wait 15 minutes and recheck blood sugar levels. If blood sugar remains below 70 mg/dL, or the individual’s target range, repeat the process by taking another 15 grams. Avoid over-treating, as too many tablets can lead to high blood sugar.
Once blood sugar levels have stabilized, a small snack containing protein and complex carbohydrates can help prevent a subsequent drop. Always discuss use and hypoglycemia management with a healthcare professional.