AGIs inhibit carbohydrate absorption in the small intestine. They also inhibit enzymes that convert complex carbohydrates into simple ones. nnAGIs are helpful for patients who have a high risk for hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis and can’t take diabetic drugs like metformin and sulfonylureas. AGIs have also been shown to reduce body weight. They’re useful for reducing postprandial hyperglycemia, since high blood sugar after a meal is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and other complications of diabetes, and they reduce glucose variability throughout the day. They don’t affect fasting insulin or serum triglyceride levels. AGIs are taken as a pill with the first bite of each meal.