Does dextrin raise blood sugar?
Disease description:
Recently, I ate some snacks containing dextrin and have become concerned about blood sugar issues. Can dextrin raise blood sugar levels? Occasionally, I feel palpitations and dizziness after eating it—could this substance be causing blood sugar fluctuations? What should I pay attention to?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
In general, dextrin has the effect of raising blood sugar levels, so it is recommended to limit the intake of foods containing dextrin in daily life.
As a type of polysaccharide, dextrin is broken down into glucose during digestion, thereby affecting blood sugar levels. Therefore, dextrin indeed has the effect of elevating blood glucose. Excessive intake of dextrin may lead to blood sugar fluctuations. Especially for individuals with a family history of diabetes, a history of elevated blood sugar, or a history of gestational diabetes, excessive consumption of dextrin-containing foods should be avoided as much as possible.
Secondly, for individuals with high blood sugar, including those with prediabetes and diabetes, dextrin—being an intermediate product of starch—may cause sustained increases in blood sugar levels after consumption. These individuals should pay particular attention to controlling total calorie intake and prioritize choosing foods with a low glycemic index. It is recommended that such patients avoid consuming foods high in dextrin, such as certain processed foods, fast food, and baked goods, to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
In daily dietary management, understanding food components and making balanced meal choices are key to maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
