Can I drink glucose if I have gastroenteritis?

Glucose is a monosaccharide that can replenish human energy. It can provide the body with the energy needed for life activities. When the human body cannot take in energy on its own, drinking glucose or getting an IV drip is the best way to replenish energy. Gastroenteritis can cause loss of appetite, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and the food eaten may not be able to maintain the energy needed by the body. So, can people with gastroenteritis drink glucose?

The most important thing in treating gastroenteritis is to replenish water and electrolytes. Usually, all that is needed is bed rest and drinking plenty of fluids (such as oral rehydration salts). Even patients who are vomiting should drink as much fluid as possible. Breastfeeding infants should continue to breastfeed. Carbonated drinks, tea, sports drinks, caffeinated drinks and juices are not suitable for rehydration. If vomiting or diarrhea persists or if dehydration is severe, intravenous rehydration may be necessary.

So, you can drink glucose.

Glucose, an organic compound, has the molecular formula C6H12O6. It is the most widely distributed and important monosaccharide in nature and is a polyhydroxy aldehyde. Pure glucose is a colorless crystal. It tastes sweet but not as sweet as sucrose (most people cannot taste the sweetness). It is easily soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol, and insoluble in ether. Natural glucose aqueous solution rotates optically to the right, so it is called "dextrose".

Glucose plays an important role in the field of biology. It is the energy source of living cells and an intermediate product of metabolism, that is, the main energy source for organisms. Plants can produce glucose through photosynthesis. It is widely used in candy manufacturing and medical fields.

Glucose is widely used clinically to provide the water and calories needed by patients with high fever, dehydration, coma or inability to eat. When a large amount of body fluid is lost, such as vomiting, diarrhea, severe blood loss, etc., 5% to 10% glucose and normal saline can be dripped intravenously to replenish water, salt and sugar. It can also be used for patients with hypoglycemia and drug poisoning.

Intravenous drip of 25% to 50% hypertonic solution can dehydrate tissues and cause transient diuresis due to its hyperosmotic effect. It can be used alternately with mannitol to treat cerebral edema, pulmonary edema and reduce intraocular pressure. Intravenous infusion of hypertonic glucose was used to treat hypoglycemia. When used in combination with insulin, it can promote the transfer of potassium into cells and is also one of the treatment measures for hyperkalemia.