Dextrose is a type of sugar that is chemically identical to glucose, which is the sugar found in the bloodstream. It is often used in processed and prepackaged foods as an artificial sweetener or preservative. Dextrose has a high glycemic index, which means that it increases blood sugar levels quickly and is a good source of energy. It is also used in baked products because it helps them brown more easily, and in wine because it improves the fermentation process. Dextrose is also often used to preserve packaged foods and extend their shelf life because it’s not as sweet as other sugars, such as sucrose. Other foods that commonly have dextrose include sauces, seasoning mix, chips, cured meats, canned foods, pickles, crackers, and fruit jams.

Dextrose also has medical purposes. It is dissolved in solutions that are given intravenously, which can be combined with other drugs, or used to increase a person’s blood sugar. Dextrose injection is a sterile solution used to provide the body with extra water and carbohydrates (calories from sugar). It is used when a patient is not able to drink enough liquids or when additional fluids are needed. Dextrose is used in various concentrations for different purposes. For example, a doctor may prescribe dextrose in an IV solution when someone is dehydrated and has low blood sugar. Dextrose IV solutions can also be combined with many drugs for IV administration. Dextrose is also used to provide carbohydrate calories to a person who cannot eat because of illness, trauma, or other medical condition. It is sometimes given to people who are sick from drinking too much alcohol. Dextrose may also be used to treat hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood).

In summary, dextrose is used as an artificial sweetener, preservative, and to neutralize food that is too spicy or salty in processed and prepackaged foods. It is also used in baked products and wine, and to preserve packaged foods and extend their shelf life. Medically, dextrose is used to treat low blood sugar, dehydration, and to provide nutrition in combination with amino acids and other substances. It is administered via IV in hospitals and can be combined with other drugs.