Ingredient
Maltitol
What is Maltitol?
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute, commonly derived from starches like corn. It is made by hydrogenating maltose, a sugar obtained from the starch.
Maltitol is used in many sugar-free and low-calorie products as it provides about 75-90% of the sweetness of sugar but with fewer calories. The evidence on its health impact is mixed. While it may benefit those reducing sugar intake, overconsumption can lead to digestive issues, as it can be fermentable and cause gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.
When you see maltitol on a label, it's often in products marketed as low-sugar or sugar-free, but it's wise to consume it in moderation to prevent digestive upset.
Commonly found in: sugar-free candies, baked goods, protein bars, chewing gum, desserts, ice cream
What to watch
- Excess consumption may cause digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea.
Benefits
- Provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar, which might be useful for calorie reduction.
Maltitol is recognized as generally safe and is approved for use in food products.
Research shows maltitol can aid in reducing sugar consumption but may cause digestive issues if consumed in large amounts.
Maltitol is derived from starch and is suitable for a vegan diet.
Sources: Food Additive Status List · Sugar Alcohols in Foods
Scout's take
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol with the highest glycemic index among sugar alcohols. It is well-documented to cause significant gastrointestinal distress including bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
The case against
Causes bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Raises blood sugar more than other sugar alcohols. Stacked with maltitol syrup for double exposure.
from the analysis of Pure Protein Protein BarsCauses gastrointestinal distress including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Raises blood sugar more than other sugar alcohols.
from the analysis of David Protein BarCauses significant gastrointestinal distress. Raises blood sugar more than other sugar alcohols like erythritol.
from the analysis of Barebells Protein BarMay cause gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large quantities.
from the analysis of MISFITS Caramel Fudge Protein BarMay cause digestive discomfort and affect blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of MISFITS Brownie Batter Protein BarThe case for
Provides sweetness with fewer calories than regular sugar.
from the analysis of MISFITS Caramel Fudge Protein Bar · echoed in 4 other analysesMore from Scout's analyses
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol that can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals and may impact blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of Barebells Nutrition Bars - Caramel Cashew - 7.76oz/4pk: Chewy Texture, Ready to Eat, 20g Protein Per ServingMaltitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sweetener in processed foods. It can cause significant gastrointestinal distress including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. It still raises blood sugar levels more than other sugar alcohols, making it a poor choice for blood sugar management.
from the analysis of David Protein BarMaltitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute. It can cause digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea when consumed in large amounts. It has a lower glycemic index than sugar but can still affect blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of MISFITS Brownie Batter Protein BarFound in 14 products
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