Maltodextrin

Definition

Maltodextrin is a sweetener made from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat.

Health Impact

Highly processed ingredient that has a high glycemic index (spikes blood sugar easily). High intake may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to gas production. Typically manufactured from GMO corn. Excessive added sugar intake is associated with adverse health conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory diseases. Excessive sugar consumption may trigger neuroadaptations in the brain that decouple eating behavior from caloric needs and leads to compulsive overeating. The American Heart Association suggests an added-sugar limit of no more than 24 grams of sugar for most women and no more than 36 grams of sugar for most men each day.

Sources

• Added Sugar in the Diet

  Harvard School of Public Health

• Impact of sugar on the body, brain, and behavior

  Pub Med

• Added Sugar in the Diet

  Harvard School of Public Health

• Impact of sugar on the body, brain, and behavior

  Pub Med

• Resistant Maltodextrin and Metabolic Syndrome: A Review

  Taylor and Francis Online

Products containing Maltodextrin

Better Options Available

Maruchan, Inc.

Ramen Noodle Soup Chicken Flavor

Better Options Available

Fair Oaks Farms Brands, Inc.

Chocolate High Protein Milk Shake

Better Options Available

Cheetos

Cheetos Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks