July 11, 2022
If you or your child has recently been diagnosed with T1D, you’re likely navigating through a whole new way of living. Even if you’ve been living with diabetes for some time, Glucose Gels and Glucose Shots (click here to buy on Amazon) may be new to you. We’re here to walk you through what they are, how they work, and why they keep you moving daily, so your T1D doesn’t keep you down.
Let’s start with some basics.
What Are Glucose Gels
Oral glucose gels are an over-the-counter medication used mainly by those living with diabetes to treat low blood sugar and hypoglycemia. These gels consist primarily of dextrose and water. Glucose Gels often have the consistency of maple syrup and come in various flavors.
What Are Glucose Shots
Oral glucose shots are very similar to glucose gels in that they are over-the-counter medications used mainly by those living with diabetes to treat low blood sugar and hypoglycemia. These shots also consist primarily of dextrose and water. Glucose Shots, however, have a liquid consistency and come in various flavors.
Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar
Early warning signs of low blood sugar include sweating, dizziness, headache, hunger or nausea, shakiness, fast heartbeat, irritability, confusion, and/or tingling or numbness of the lips, tongue, or cheek.
This is often referred to as hypoglycemia which is the condition in which your blood sugar (glucose) level is lower than the standard range. Because glucose is your body’s main energy source, it’s critical that it doesn’t go too low. The most common reason for low blood sugar is a side effect of diabetes medication.
How to Use Glucose Gels and Shots to Treat Low Blood Sugar
Treating hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels is critical. There are many ways to do it — from juices, candies, and sodas to glucose tablets, liquids, and gels. But how do they work?
The American Diabetes Association recommends following the 15-15 rule, which consists of consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates to raise your blood glucose and then rechecking your blood sugar levels 15 minutes later. If it’s still below your range, you repeat the cycle.
Instead of playing the guessing game, our glucose products for diabetics like Transcend Glucose Gels and Transcend Glucose Shots (click here to buy on Amazon) are specifically designed for T1Ds. In fact, Transcend Foods was created by a T1D who knew there had to be a better way to treat his low blood sugar levels.
Glucose Products Versus Soda, Candy, and Sugary Food
Many T1Ds turn to candies, juices, and sodas to raise glucose levels but these options do not have exactly 15 grams of glucose per serving and often include many other ingredients that aren’t helpful. In fact, those “extra ingredients” may slow down the absorption of glucose. This often leaves you guessing and testing at a time when you are most vulnerable and need a solution fast.
How Fast Do Glucose Shots and Gels Work?
Transcend Glucose Gels and Glucose Shots are engineered to be consumed quickly with a tear-open top. Once consumed, most blood sugars will begin to fall within 10 minutes but could take up to 60 minutes after ingestion. The gels and shots are also housed in packaging that is made to withstand the rigors of life so they can be thrown in your backpack, glove box, purse, or suitcase, and they do not need to be refrigerated. They’re made with precisely 15 grams of glucose — no more, no less — exactly what’s needed to refuel quickly, respond, and take action.
What do Glucose Gels and Shots Taste Like?
Unlike other glucose products on the market, Transcend Glucose Gels and Shots were designed to taste good. With several flavors available, the glucose shots have a liquid consistency, while glucose gels have a maple syrup consistency. Both treat low blood sugar symptoms the exact same way.
Transcend glucose gels and shots are available in the following flavors:
Strawberry glucose gel
Orange glucose gel
Mixed berry glucose shots (available on Amazon)
Why Trust Transcend?
Your diabetes doesn’t stop, so why should you? Transcend exists to make life easier through convenient, fast-acting glucose solutions inside durable, take-anywhere packaging that helps you take control of your diabetes every day. And it tastes great!
We believe in the power of feeling in control so you can accomplish what matters to you, day-in and day-out.
Learn more and order your fast-acting glucose products today.
Disclaimer: THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN AS A MEDICAL ADVICE. For those with existing medical conditions, those who are taking medications, or are uncertain about any information we share, proper consultation with your trusted physician is strongly recommended.