Medical Edge Newspaper Column

Sugar Alcohol Doesn't Affect Carbohydrate Absorption

May 28, 2007
Dear Mayo Clinic:
I have diabetes, and I'm wondering if sugar alcohol reduces the number of carbohydrates that the body absorbs? -- Flushing, N.Y.

Answer:
The short answer is no. Sugar alcohol is an intense sweetener that's used instead of sugar in gum, candy and other sweets labeled "sugar-free." By itself, sugar alcohol has limited effect on blood sugar. However, it is often combined with other calorie-containing ingredients, which will have an effect.

It's good to understand how sugar alcohol affects the body and your diabetes because this sweetener is common in sugar-free and diet foods you might be considering.

Sugar alcohol is absorbed into the body more slowly than regular sugar. For people with diabetes who are working to maintain a consistent blood sugar level, that's a positive. Another benefit is that sugar alcohol provides only about half of the calories of regular sugar.

But that doesn't give you a blank check to eat 10 candies or a row of cookies. Sugar-free sweets still have calories, and even a relatively small amount of sugar alcohol can cause diarrhea and bloating. That's because sugar alcohol is not fully absorbed by the body.

Consider that one piece of sugar-free candy could have about 10 grams of sugar alcohol. Digestive concerns can occur by consuming 50 grams of sugar alcohol. So, five or six pieces of candy could cause digestive problems.

Moderation is the key when eating foods with sugar alcohol. Common sugar alcohols include: sorbitol, lactitol, mannitol, and maltitol. Also, be aware that foods made with these sweeteners may contain significant calories from other ingredients and can thus effect your overall diabetes management. Be sure to check food labels for the presence of sugar alcohols and calorie content.

-- Jennifer Nelson, Clinical Dietetics Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.