Sorbitol is one of the artificial sweeteners commonly used in food or beverages. This artificial sweetener has lower calories than regular sugar. Not only low in calories, sorbitol also has several health benefits.
Sorbitol is a type of sugar alcohol sweetener. Although classified as sugar alcohol, this sweetener does not contain ethanol alcohol compounds that cause a hangover effect. Sorbitol is water soluble and occurs naturally in many fruits, such as apples, dates, berries, and peaches.
Compared to granulated sugar, the calories in sorbitol are relatively low, which is only about 60% of the total calories in granulated sugar. Therefore, sorbitol is often used as an alternative to sugar in foods or beverages. Not only that, sorbitol is also often used as a food additive and preservative.
Various Benefits of Sorbitol for Health
Not only as a sweetener, sorbitol also has good health benefits. The following are some of the benefits of sorbitol:
Maintain blood sugar levels
Sorbitol is often used as an alternative to sugar for diabetics. This is because sorbitol is low in calories and does not cause high blood sugar increases.
However, before choosing and using sorbitol as a sweetener in food and beverages, diabetics should first consult with their doctor to find out the right dose of sorbitol.
Maintain dental health
Sorbitol is often used as an alternative sweetener in sugar-free chewing gums and mouthwashes.mouthwash). Unlike regular sugar, which can damage teeth, sorbitol does not cause damage to the protective layer of teeth or tooth enamel, thereby reducing the risk of plaque and cavities forming.
Overcome constipation
Sorbitol can increase the absorption of water in the intestines, soften stools, and stimulate bowel movements. Therefore, sorbitol is often used as a laxative to treat constipation.
Not only that, several studies have also shown that sorbitol has prebiotic properties. However, sorbitol can sometimes cause discomfort or even an upset stomach, if taken in excess in excess.
Things to Pay Attention to when Using Sorbitol
As previously mentioned, sorbitol has a laxative effect. In some people, consuming large amounts of sorbitol or sugar alcohol can cause flatulence, nausea, vomiting, frequent farts, and diarrhea.
Although low in calories, sorbitol can still increase blood sugar, especially if consumed in excess. You may not even realize you're taking sorbitol because foods or drinks that include this compound are often labeled "sugar-free" or "no added sugar" on the packaging.
However, you need to remember that a food or drink that is labeled “sugar free” does not mean it is completely sugar free.
If you want to use sorbitol as an alternative to sugar, it's a good idea to consult your doctor first, especially if you have diabetes.