Xylitol
Sugar Alcohols
Potentially Harmful
Details
Definition
A type of sugar alcohol: a hybrid of sugar and alcohol molecules used as a low calorie substitute for sugar. Xylitol is one of the most common sugar alcohols found in chewing gum, candies, mints, diabetes-friendly food and oral care products.
AKAs
Birch Sugar,Wood Sugar
Health Impact
Can cause digestive issues and discomfort such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain. If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or an intolerance to FODMAPs, you should be careful with sugar alcohols and consider avoiding them altogether.
Sources
Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5093271/Effects of Sweeteners on the Gut Microbiota: A Review of Experimental Studies and Clinical Trials
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6363527/A Systematic Review of the Effects of Polyols on Gastrointestinal Health and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5508768/Reading ingredients made easy. For quicker, healthier decisions.
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