Tag: Sugar alcohol

Sorbitol, a type of carbohydrate known as a sugar alcohol, is used in thousands of medical and food products for its unique chemical properties. Its diverse functions range from a potent osmotic laxative to a moisture-retaining excipient in medications. Understanding what is the use of sorbitol reveals its crucial but often hidden presence in many everyday items.

According to the International Food Information Council, excessive consumption of sugar alcohols like mannitol can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea. This occurs because mannitol is poorly absorbed by the body, creating an osmotic effect in the intestines that draws in water, a key mechanism behind its laxative property.

While rare, sorbitol can cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes and hives [1.3.3, 1.2.1]. This sugar alcohol, found in many 'sugar-free' products and medications, is a known cause of delayed hypersensitivity reactions for some individuals [1.4.5, 1.6.1].

According to research, headaches are a reported symptom of sorbitol intolerance, a condition affecting how the body digests this common sugar alcohol. This means the answer to **Can sorbitol cause headaches?** is a definitive yes, though the exact mechanism depends on individual factors and intake levels.

Studies show that a significant portion of healthy individuals, between 35-70%, experience symptoms after ingesting over 10 grams of a similar sugar alcohol, sorbitol [1.7.7]. If you experience discomfort after eating certain foods, understanding 'What are the symptoms of mannitol intolerance?' is a crucial first step.

While sorbitol is a widely used sugar alcohol, studies suggest that many individuals may experience significant gastrointestinal distress, especially at higher doses. For those relying on sugar-free products, understanding **what are the bad side effects of sorbitol?** is crucial for managing health and dietary choices effectively.

Sorbitol, a sugar alcohol (or polyol), naturally occurs in fruits like apples, pears, and prunes. It contains about two-thirds the calories of table sugar, providing roughly 60% of the sweetness. The important question is, what are the benefits of sorbitol syrup in medical and commercial applications?

Sorbitol is a versatile sugar alcohol found naturally in fruits like apples, pears, and plums. In commercial settings, it is widely used as a food additive, a pharmaceutical excipient, and an ingredient in cosmetic products. What is sorbitol used for? Its applications are diverse, leveraging its properties as a low-calorie sweetener, a humectant, and an osmotic laxative.