Maltitol

Artificial Sweeteners

Potentially Harmful

Definition

A type of sugar alcohol: a hybrid of sugar and alcohol molecules used as a low calorie substitute for sugar. Maltitol similar to Sorbitol and Xylitol usually used as an ingredient and found in many sugar free products. It is used as a sweetener or thickener in candies, ice cream, baked goods, energy and protein bars, gum, mouthwash and toothpaste. In most cases, starches and sugars are hydrogenated to yield sugar alcohols. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/sugar-alcohol)

Also Known As

Hydrogenated Maltose, Hydrogenated Glucose Syrup, Lesys, Maltisweet, Sweetpearl, Maltitol Syrup

Health Impact

A generally safe alternative to sugar but may cause gas and stomach pains As a carbohydrate it has a high glycemic index (although not as high as sugar) which can have an effect on blood glucose. As an artificial sweetener, it has an impact on gut bacteria and can affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar over time.