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Although sugar alcohols are commonly used in various foods, they remain somewhat mysterious to many people. As an alternative to sugar, they may offer potential benefits. Authority Nutrition provides insight into the specifics.
There are several types of sugar alcohols, with the most well-known being xylitol, erythritol, sorbitol, and maltitol. These are a combination of sugar and alcohol, but don’t worry—they won’t get you drunk. Instead, they serve as sweeteners in many health-focused products like protein bars and sugar-free gum, as they have fewer calories and other healthful qualities.
For instance, long-term high blood sugar can harm your health, but sugar alcohols raise blood sugar levels much less than regular sugar. Additionally, many sugar alcohols can help prevent tooth decay.
The advantages of sugar alcohols, including their prebiotic properties, seem to significantly outweigh any downsides. However, it’s worth noting that consuming too many may cause digestive discomfort. To dive deeper into sugar alcohols, check out Authority Nutrition's comprehensive article below.
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