Is it better to walk or sit after drinking glucose?
Disease description:
In the morning, I didn't have breakfast and felt slightly hypoglycemic, so I drank a bottle of glucose. May I ask, after drinking the glucose, is it better to walk around or sit down?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
The type of activity to engage in after consuming glucose primarily depends on an individual's health status and the purpose of glucose intake.
If the glucose is consumed for a glucose tolerance test, it is generally recommended to avoid strenuous exercise, with sitting or light activity being more appropriate. This is because intense physical activity may affect the stability of blood glucose levels, thereby influencing the accuracy of the test results.
However, if the purpose of consuming glucose is to relieve symptoms of hypoglycemia, gentle walking after consumption is recommended. Walking helps promote the absorption and utilization of glucose in the body, thereby alleviating hypoglycemic symptoms such as dizziness and palpitations more quickly. In this situation, walking will not impair glucose absorption; rather, it assists the body in recovering faster.
In addition to considering the purpose of glucose consumption, an individual's physical condition is also an important factor in determining the appropriate activity. High-intensity exercise may consume excessive glucose and lead to low blood sugar levels. However, moderate physical activity can improve blood circulation and enhance the body's glucose utilization while reducing insulin resistance.
After consuming glucose, individuals should choose suitable levels of activity based on the specific reason for intake. Walking is advised for relieving hypoglycemic symptoms, whereas movement should be minimized during a glucose tolerance test. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
