Fast Sugar Sources That Work

Glucose tablets and gel are made to raise blood sugar fast. Each one comes in a set amount, which makes the effect easier to predict. Most tablets hold 4 grams each. Sizes can differ, so read the label on your own product.

Tablets are not the only option. Juice and regular soda are common quick sugars. A typical amount of juice or regular soda is about 4 ounces (about 15 grams). Diet soda does not work, since it has no usable sugar.

Honey and table sugar raise blood sugar fast. But they are harder to measure when you feel shaky. Ask your care team how much fast sugar fits your plan.

Fat and protein slow how fast sugar gets into your blood. Think of them like a slow drip instead of a faucet. So chocolate, peanut butter crackers and ice cream are poor first choices during a low. Save them for later instead.

Key takeaways

• Glucose tablets and gel come in set amounts, so their effect is easier to predict.
• Juice, regular soda, honey and sugar raise blood sugar fast, but diet soda does not.
• Fat and protein slow sugar, so chocolate and peanut butter crackers are not first choices.

Try it

If you keep juice at home, pour 4 ounces into a measuring cup today so you can see that amount. Your own plan sets how much you use.