What are the main uses of Sorbitol. How does Sorbitol work as a laxative. What are the common side effects of Sorbitol. Who should exercise caution when using Sorbitol. How should Sorbitol be administered for optimal results. What are the potential drug interactions with Sorbitol. How to manage Sorbitol overdose and missed doses.

Understanding Sorbitol: A Comprehensive Overview

Sorbitol is a medication primarily used as a laxative to address occasional episodes of constipation. Its versatility extends to various administration methods, including oral and rectal applications, depending on the specific product formulation. To ensure proper usage, it’s crucial to carefully review the product label or consult with a healthcare professional.

Key Points About Sorbitol

• Primary use: Treatment of occasional constipation
• Administration methods: Oral and/or rectal, product-dependent
• Duration of use: Generally not exceeding one week
• Professional guidance: Essential for proper usage and dosage

Proper Administration of Sorbitol Solution

The administration of Sorbitol varies based on the specific product and the route of delivery. For oral consumption, it’s imperative to adhere to the physician’s instructions. In cases of rectal administration, proper preparation of the enema solution is crucial, following either the product package guidelines or the doctor’s directives.

Guidelines for Sorbitol Usage

1. Adhere strictly to prescribed or recommended dosages
2. Limit usage to a maximum of one week unless otherwise directed
3. Avoid concurrent use with additional laxatives or stool softeners without medical approval
4. Seek immediate medical attention if constipation persists after a week of use

Is Sorbitol suitable for long-term use? Sorbitol and other laxatives are designed for temporary relief of constipation. Prolonged use can lead to laxative dependence, affecting the body’s natural bowel function. It’s essential to view Sorbitol as a short-term solution while working towards establishing regular bowel habits through dietary and lifestyle changes.

Navigating Sorbitol’s Side Effects Landscape

While Sorbitol is generally well-tolerated, it’s not without potential side effects. Common adverse reactions include nausea, gas, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and anal irritation. These effects are typically mild and transient. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Recognizing Serious Side Effects

In rare instances, more severe side effects may occur. These require immediate medical attention and include:

• Rectal bleeding
• Black stools
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Severe dizziness

Can Sorbitol trigger allergic reactions? While rare, severe allergic reactions to Sorbitol are possible. Symptoms such as rash, itching or swelling (particularly of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or breathing difficulties warrant immediate medical intervention.

Precautionary Measures and Contraindications for Sorbitol Use

Prior to initiating Sorbitol treatment, it’s essential to disclose any allergies or medical conditions to your healthcare provider. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications in sensitive individuals.

Medical History Considerations

Certain medical conditions may impact the safety and efficacy of Sorbitol use. It’s crucial to inform your doctor about:

• Undiagnosed abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Recent rectal bleeding
• Sudden changes in bowel habits lasting over two weeks

How does age affect Sorbitol sensitivity? Both older adults and children may exhibit increased sensitivity to Sorbitol’s side effects. In these populations, careful monitoring and potential dosage adjustments may be necessary to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Sorbitol in Special Populations: Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The use of Sorbitol during pregnancy requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits. While it should only be used when clearly necessary, the specific implications for fetal development are not fully understood. Pregnant individuals should engage in a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider before using Sorbitol.

Is Sorbitol safe during breastfeeding? The excretion of Sorbitol into breast milk and its potential effects on nursing infants are not well-established. Breastfeeding individuals should consult with their healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks against the benefits of Sorbitol use.

Navigating Drug Interactions with Sorbitol

Sorbitol may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of adverse effects. It’s crucial to maintain an up-to-date list of all medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements, and share this information with your healthcare providers.

Known Drug Interactions

Particular attention should be paid to potential interactions between Sorbitol and:

• Lamivudine
• Sodium polystyrene sulfonate

How can one minimize the risk of drug interactions? To reduce the potential for adverse interactions, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of any medication while using Sorbitol. They can provide guidance on proper timing and dosing to minimize interaction risks.

Managing Sorbitol Overdose and Missed Doses

In the event of a Sorbitol overdose, prompt action is crucial. If severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness or breathing difficulties occur, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. For less severe cases, contacting a poison control center for guidance is advisable.

Overdose Symptoms

• Severe stomach cramps
• Persistent diarrhea

What should one do in case of a missed Sorbitol dose? If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it’s close to the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. It’s important not to double the dose to compensate for the missed one, as this could increase the risk of side effects.

Proper Storage and Disposal of Sorbitol

To maintain the efficacy and safety of Sorbitol, proper storage is essential. The medication should be kept at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing Sorbitol in bathrooms, where humidity levels can be high.

Disposal Guidelines

When Sorbitol expires or is no longer needed, proper disposal is crucial to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination. Follow these guidelines:

• Do not flush down the toilet or pour into drains unless specifically instructed
• Consult a pharmacist or local waste disposal company for proper disposal methods
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

How long can Sorbitol be safely stored? While the exact shelf life can vary by product, generally, Sorbitol can be stored for up to 3 years when kept in proper conditions. Always check the expiration date on the packaging and discard any product that has expired or shows signs of degradation.

In conclusion, Sorbitol serves as an effective short-term solution for constipation relief when used appropriately. By understanding its proper use, potential side effects, and important precautions, individuals can maximize the benefits of this medication while minimizing risks. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to address any concerns about Sorbitol use.

Sorbitol: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used as a laxative to treat occasional episodes of constipation.Depending on the brand, this product may be taken by mouth and/or given rectally. Some products may only be given rectally. Be sure to check the label on your product for how to take your specific product.

How to use Sorbitol Solution

If you are taking this medication by mouth, follow your doctor’s directions.

If you are using this medication rectally, properly mix an enema as directed by the product package or as directed by your doctor.

Do not use for longer than one week and do not take with additional laxatives or stool softeners unless directed by your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if your constipation is not relieved after using this medication for one week.

Laxatives should only be used temporarily until normal bowel habits return. Prolonged use can lead to laxative dependence.

If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Nausea, gas, diarrhea, stomach cramps or anal irritation may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: rectal bleeding, black stools, vomiting, weakness, dizziness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: undiagnosed stomach pain, nausea/vomiting, rectal bleeding, a sudden change in bowel habits lasting over 2 weeks.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug are: lamivudine, sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Does Sorbitol Solution interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: stomach cramps, diarrhea.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Next

Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.

Available coupons

Save up to 80% on your prescription with WebMDRx

Drug Survey

Are you currently using Sorbitol Solution?

This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

What Is Sorbitol? Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, and More

Sorbitol, also called D-sorbitol, 50-70-4, E420, and D-glucitol, is a type of carbohydrate. It falls into a category of sugar alcohols called polyols.

This water-soluble compound is found naturally in some fruits, including apples, apricots, dates, berries, peaches, plums, and figs (1).

It’s also commercially manufactured from corn syrup for use in packaged foods, beverages, and medications.

Commercially, sorbitol is used to preserve moisture, add sweetness, and provide texture to products, as well as potentially support digestive and oral health.

Sorbitol is a widely used sugar alcohol for several reasons.

First, sugar alcohols are often used in foods and beverages in place of traditional sugar to reduce their calorie content. Sorbitol contains approximately two-thirds of the calories of table sugar and provides about 60% of the sweetness (2).

It’s also not fully digested in your small intestine. What remains of the compound from there moves into the large intestine where it’s instead fermented, or broken down by bacteria, resulting in fewer calories being absorbed (3).

Second, the sweetener is often added to foods marketed to people with diabetes. That’s because it has very little effect on blood sugar levels when eaten, compared with foods made with traditional sweeteners like table sugar.

Third, unlike table sugar, sugar alcohols like sorbitol don’t contribute to the formation of cavities. This is one reason why they’re often used to sweeten sugar-free chewing gum and liquid medications (1, 4).

In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognized that sugar alcohols like sorbitol may benefit oral health. This is based on a study that found that sorbitol may reduce cavity risk compared with table sugar, although not to the same extent as other sugar alcohols (5, 6).

Lastly, it’s used on its own as a laxative to combat constipation. It’s hyperosmotic, meaning it draws water into the colon from surrounding tissues to promote bowel movements. It can be purchased for this purpose at most grocery and drug stores without a prescription.

Consuming sorbitol or other sugar alcohols in large amounts can cause bloating and diarrhea in some people, especially if you’re not used to regularly consuming them. This can be an unwelcome result for some, but the desired effect for those using it to promote bowel activity.

Fortunately, other side effects from sorbitol appear to be uncommon. The most frequently reported complaint is diarrhea, though it may be accompanied by abdominal cramping or nausea (7, 8).

Still, while some laxatives can be habit-forming and shouldn’t be used for prolonged periods, sorbitol is considered a less risky, non-stimulative laxative. That said, given that it works by drawing fluid into your intestines to promote bowel activity, it should only be used as directed (9).

Despite its potential side effects, sorbitol has been reviewed and recognized as safe to consume by many global health authorities, including the FDA, Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), and European Union (2, 10).

Sorbitol for laxative use can be found both as a rectal enema or liquid solution to be taken orally. You can take it orally with a glass of water or mixed into flavored beverages, with or without food.

Recommended dosages vary. Some studies indicate that unwanted side effects are more likely if you consume 10 grams or more per day. Additionally, one study found that malabsorption was more likely with doses of 10 grams — even among healthy individuals (1, 10).

The FDA requires that labels on foods that could cause you to consume more than 50 grams daily include the warning: “Excess consumption may have a laxative effect” (12).

That’s because taking too much sorbitol can cause severe digestive side effects and electrolyte imbalances, although there’s no evidence that the compound can cause toxicity (7, 10).

If you think you’ve taken too much sorbitol and are experiencing significant symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Be prepared to provide information about the dosage and your symptoms, including the timing of their onset.

Ultimately, it’s best to follow consumer directions on the packaging. Alternatively, consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about appropriate dosing and usage.

Sorbitol should not be taken with calcium or sodium polystyrene sulfonate, which are used to treat high levels of potassium in the blood. Doing so can cause an interaction that leads to intestinal tissue death (11).

If you’re taking sorbitol to alleviate constipation, avoid using other laxatives at the same time unless your healthcare provider has specifically directed you to do so.

Most sorbitol can be stored at room temperature, or approximately 77°F (25°C). It should not be frozen or kept in hot environments, as this may reduce its shelf life.

However, many variations of sorbitol products exist, so it’s likely that their shelf lives vary.

If stored correctly, most products typically last 6–12 months, although this depends on the form and brand. Once a product is expired, be sure to discard it appropriately through a drug take-back event or another safe disposal method.

While clinical research on the effects of taking sorbitol while pregnant or breastfeeding is limited, sugar alcohols and polyols are generally considered safe to use in moderation (13).

Yet, as with other medications and supplements, it’s always a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before using sorbitol if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Sorbitol is generally considered a low risk laxative for most people when used correctly, although certain populations should avoid it.

Caution is advised if using sorbitol for children. It’s best to speak to your healthcare provider for specific dosing for kids.

People with preexisting digestive conditions or sensitivities may also want to avoid the compound (14).

This includes those following a low FODMAP diet, which excludes certain types of carbs. FODMAP is an acronym that stands for “fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols,” and sorbitol is a polyol (15).

The low FODMAP diet is commonly followed by people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). As such, those with this condition should avoid using sorbitol.

As with other medications, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider about the appropriate use and dosage of sorbitol, especially if you have a chronic health condition.

If you’re looking for an alternative to sorbitol to provide laxative effects, several low risk options are available.

The most similar alternatives are other sugar alcohols like erythritol or xylitol, which are commonly used in chewing gum and diet drinks (16).

Other foods that may provide similar laxative effects include (14):

• Flax and chia seeds. These contain 8–10 grams of stool-promoting fiber per 1/4 cup or 3 tablespoons (30 grams), respectively (17, 18).
• Kefir. This is a fermented milk product rich in probiotics that can increase regularity and the speed of intestinal transit, add moisture, and bulk up your stool (19, 20).
• Castor oil. This long-used natural laxative is derived from castor beans, which are full of intestinal-movement-promoting ricinoleic acid (21).
• Fruits and veggies. High fiber fruits and veggies like berries and leafy greens can boost stool output (22).
• Legumes. Beans, chickpeas, lentils, peas, and peanuts are rich in fiber and the compound butyric acid, both of which promote regularity (23).
• Prunes and apples. These are natural sources of sorbitol. Note that they may not be good options for those following a low FODMAP diet.
• Senna. This herb is derived from the plant Senna alexandrina and found in many common over-the-counter laxatives (24).
• Aloe vera. Aloe vera latex is often used as a laxative. It’s full of anthraquinone glycoside, which are compounds that draw water into the intestines and stimulate your digestive tract (25).
• Magnesium citrate. This common laxative and nutritional supplement promotes bowel movements.
• Coffee. This beverage is a natural bowel stimulant that triggers intestinal muscle movement in many people.
• Psyllium husk. This rich source of soluble fiber can help soften stool and make it easier to pass (26).

Sorbitol may also be used in conjunction with a diet rich in fiber and stool-forming foods to maintain bowel regularity.

Sorbitol as a substitute for sugar: harm, benefits, instruction, application, properties

Sorbitol is a sugar substitute of natural origin, which is widely used in the food industry. The sweetener is found naturally in berries and fruits such as pears, apples, peaches and apricots. The sorbitol content is high in red rowan berries, to which it owes its name. Also, the substance is produced by the human body in the process of metabolism. Sorbitol is labeled on packages as food additive E420.

Sorbitol has a low glycemic index, which makes it suitable for use as a sweetener in diabetic foods. In this area, the substance has been used from the 30s of the last century to the present day. Especially popular is the use of sorbitol in confectionery.

According to its chemical structure, sorbitol belongs to polyhydric alcohols. Sorbitol crystals are white, solid, highly soluble in water, slightly larger than sugar in size. The substance has a good sweet taste, reminiscent of sucrose, but without a pleasant aftertaste. In terms of sweetness, sorbitol is 45% inferior to sugar. Like all such alcohols, this sweetener creates a slight cooling sensation in the mouth.

This sweetener is marketed under the names: Sorbitol, Food Sorbitol, Sorbitol, Sorbitol, Sorbit. It is found in the form of a liquid and powder, and is also part of mixtures of sweeteners.

This sweetener is made from corn, potato or wheat starch. Over the years of use, the substance has been carefully studied and researched. In addition, the healing effect of sorbitol on the body was revealed.

Application of sorbitol

Sorbitol is widely used in the production of general food products, dietary products, medicines and hygiene products.

This substance is used:

• in the production of dietary products, products for diabetics
• in the food industry to improve the taste, type and quality of food
• as an auxiliary substance in the manufacture of medicines (to give structure): vitamins, syrups
• for coughs, creams and ointments, laxatives
• in cosmetology for the production of shampoos, shower gels, decorative cosmetics
• in medicine for the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
• in production and at home when preserving products for the winter
• in care products behind the oral cavity (chewing gums, lozenges and toothpastes
• for cleansing the liver and bile ducts
• as a laxative and choleretic agent

Sorbitol in products

Sorbitol is found naturally in starchy berries and fruits. High concentrations of this substance are found in dried fruits:

Sorbitol is found in a large number of products:

• meat and fish industry products
• dairy products: cheeses, yoghurts, cottage cheese
• chewing gums and lollipops
• chocolate bars, bars, sweets
• canned fruits and vegetables
• non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks
• marshmallows, marmalade, marshmallows
• preserves, marmalade, jams
• ice cream
• cakes and pastries
• biscuits, waffles
• bakery products

Products with sorbitol are positioned as dietary, low-calorie. They are intended for diabetics and people who want to limit their sugar intake. Products in appearance do not differ from those with sugar, but have a more pleasant appearance and color. In addition, sorbitol improves and enhances the taste.

Sorbitol is resistant to heat treatment, which allows it to be used in the preparation of hot dishes and drinks.

Benefits of Sorbitol

The demand for low glycemic and reduced calorie foods is increasing every year. The English-language resource https://caloriecontrol.org claims that sorbitol is non-toxic, has many advantages and versatility. Thanks to this, the industrial use of sorbitol has broad prospects and will only grow.

Benefits of sorbitol:

• low glycemic index;
• fewer calories than sugar;
• is almost completely absorbed by the body (98%) and has a high nutritional value;
• normalizes the intestinal microflora;
• is not a carbohydrate and can be used on a low carbohydrate diet;
• the use of sorbitol saves consumption of B vitamins, which play an important role in the functioning of the body;
• has a laxative effect;
• due to its choleretic effect, it is used to cleanse the liver and gallbladder;
• is used for diseases of the kidneys and bladder;
• improves digestion, enhances the production of gastric juice;
• is not a breeding ground for oral bacteria, improves the general condition of teeth and gums;
• skin care products with sorbitol in the composition eliminates itching, dryness, peeling, evens out the color;
• is used for alcohol intoxication, shock conditions;
• isotonic sorbitol solution is used in dehydration to replenish the body with fluid;
• improves the taste, color and texture of food, is able to retain moisture and increase shelf life;
• as a sweetener improves the taste of medicines, therefore it is often added to vitamins for children, cough syrups, etc. The substance can be added to hot drinks.

  The second popular use of sorbitol is to cleanse the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts. This is an effective and safe procedure, but there are contraindications, so you need to consult a specialist before doing it at home.

  Tube with sorbitol

  The procedure is recommended for congestion in the liver and gallbladder and is often part of a complex treatment. As a result of tubage, the production of bile is enhanced, which naturally cleanses the bile ducts. After the procedure, the general condition of the body improves, chronic fatigue disappears, a feeling of lightness appears in the body.

  2-3 days before the tubage, you need to switch to plant foods and increase fluid intake. You can drink water, herbal tea, apple and beet juice.

  On the night before the procedure, a wild rose infusion is prepared, for which you need to take:

  1. 3 tbsp. dried and chopped rose hips
  2. 500 ml boiling water

  Rose hips are placed in a thermos, filled with hot water, then closed and left overnight. In the morning, the infusion is filtered through cheesecloth, folded in several layers, or a sieve. On the basis of the resulting liquid, a choleretic drink is prepared, taking the ingredients in the following quantity:
  250 ml rosehip infusion
  3 tbsp. l. sorbitol

  After waiting for the complete dissolution of sorbitol crystals, drink the mixture. After 20 minutes, the remaining rosehip infusion is taken orally without adding sugar to it. For 40-50 minutes, moderate physical activity should be done, for example, it can be light exercise or cleaning. You can have breakfast in about an hour. You should not leave the house, as the procedure causes a strong loosening of the stool.

  Tubage is carried out weekly or as needed. If you took a long break or encountered the procedure for the first time, you should repeat the tubage 5-6 times every two days.

  Food preservation for the winter with sorbitol

  The properties of sorbitol make it possible to use it when preserving food for the winter. Such blanks can be consumed by diabetics, but in moderation. The recommended norm is no more than 3 tablespoons of jam on sorbitol per day. Exceeding the dosage may cause unwanted effects.

  The amount of sorbitol added to the preparations depends on the degree of sweetness of the fruit or berries. If they are sour, more sweetener will be needed. Therefore, if this is your first time canning food with sorbitol, it is best to make a small amount and see if the taste meets your expectations.

  Approximate amount of sorbitol per 1 kg of fruits or berries:

  1. jam – 1.5 kg
  2. jam – 700 g
  3. jam – 120 g

  ite is no different from the usual. Pre-washed and sorted berries or fruits are covered with sorbitol, after which they must be left for 12 hours. During this time, the fruits will release juice. Then the jam is brought to a boil over low heat and boiled for 15 minutes.

  You can also prepare diet compotes with sorbitol, for which any berries or fruits are suitable. Prepared raw materials are laid out in jars and poured with syrup prepared in the following proportions:

  1. 1 liter of water
  2. 350 g of sorbitol

  The syrup is easy to prepare. Water with sorbitol is brought to a boil, stirring continuously so that all the crystals dissolve. Then the syrup is filtered and heated again. After filling the jars with syrup, the compote must be sterilized in the usual way.

  Store blanks with sorbitol in a dark, cool place for 6-12 months.

  Side effects and contraindications

  Sorbitol is recognized as a safe sweetener and approved for use in the food industry in most countries. The substance in its pure form is not recommended for daily use as an additive to drinks and food. Although use up to 50 g rarely causes unwanted symptoms, it is best to use no more than 20 g per day. It must be remembered that sorbitol is found in many semi-finished products and other foods!

  Uncontrolled use of sorbitol may cause the following side effects:

  • allergic reactions
  • weakness and dizziness
  • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
  • increased gas formation, bloating

  9 0023 pronounced laxative effect

  • urinary retention
  • tachycardia
  • chills
  • although the substance has a low glycemic index, blood sugar slightly increases, which should be taken into account for people with diabetes
  • an excess of the substance can lead to neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy
  • weight gain, since the substance is sufficiently caloric

  Contraindications for the use of sorbitol include: fructose, since a large dose of sorbitol impairs its absorption

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (ascites, colitis, cholelithiasis, irritable bowel syndrome)
• pregnancy and childhood – with caution

If the recommendations for use are followed, no undesirable effects appear. And in the event of an unexpected reaction of the body, it is enough to remove sorbitol from the diet.

Sorbitol or aspartame

Sorbitol is a natural sweetener, aspartame is an artificial sweetener. Both substances are popular alternatives to sugar and are actively used in the production of low-calorie foods, drinks and medicines.

As you can see from the table below, these sweeteners differ greatly in their properties:

9 0058

Sorbitol features:

• less sweetness
• higher glycemic index
• has a healing effect
• has nutritional value

900 23 normalizes the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract

• improves digestion
• has a laxative effect
• increases the shelf life of food
• suitable for heat treatment

Aspartame features:

• high sweetness factor
• the substance is added to food in small quantities, therefore the finished product does not contain calories
• zero glycemic index
• products with aspartame have a short shelf life
• loses properties when heated

Both substances can be used in diabetic nutrition and diets for weight loss.

Sorbitol or fructose?

Both sorbitol and fructose are natural sugar substitutes found in berries and fruits. On the shelves of stores there is a huge amount of dietary products with fructose and sorbitol in the composition. In addition, these sweeteners are used in general purpose products.

As can be seen from the table, sorbitol has advantages over fructose:

9005 0 possible

Features of sorbitol:

• less sweetness
• less e calorie content
• lower glycemic index
• beneficial effect on teeth and gums
• laxative effect

Features of fructose:

• more sweet
• more pleasant taste and aroma
• higher glycemic index
• increases hunger
• leads to liver failure
• excess consumption causes obesity and other metabolic diseases

If choosing between these two sweeteners, it is better to lean towards sorbitol. It does less damage and is more effective. But it is worth saying that today there are other sugar substitutes on the market that are ahead of both sorbitol and fructose in terms of their characteristics. You can learn more about popular sweeteners on our website.

Views: 136 200

Sorbitol

This is a well-known sugar substitute, sweetener.

Sorbitol is a naturally occurring substance. Natural sorbitol is present in seaweed, rowan, plum, apple, sweet cherry and other starchy fruits. Especially a lot of it is found in stone fruits and dried fruits. Suffice it to say that 100 grams of prunes or dried pears contain at least 10 grams of sorbitol, dried plums (regular) and rose hips – 8 grams, dried apricots – 5 grams. It is present even in beer.

The main raw material for the industrial production of sorbitol is starch – corn, wheat from a number of tropical plants. Hydrolysis of starch yields D-glucose, from which sorbitol is then obtained in the process of electrolytic reduction or catalytic hydrogenation under high pressure. Such a product consists mainly of D-sorbitol, but may contain some hydrogenated saccharides, such as mannitol, maltitol, and so on. The content of mannitol and other reduced sugars is regulated by sanitary standards.

In the food grade commodities market, sorbitol is available as a 70% aqueous solution or as a powdered (crystalline) product.

World production of sorbitol is about 800 thousand tons per year.

What products use sorbitol?

Food industry.

With characteristic nutritional and processing properties, sorbitol (European safety code E420; international code INS 420) has been used for decades in a variety of food products.

Sorbitol is often used as a humectant and stabilizer in the bakery and confectionery industry and extends the shelf life of foods by maintaining their moisture content. It is also used as a plasticizer in the tobacco industry and replaces glycerin in the manufacture of cigarettes because it does not form acrolein when burned. As a moisture-saving agent, sorbitol is used in the production of caviar in the fishing industry.

Scientific evidence has shown that the use of sorbitol in food has a beneficial effect on human health. Consumption of foods containing sorbitol in place of sugar may help maintain dental health by reducing dental demineralization and may also cause a lower post-meal blood glucose rise compared to a similar food containing sugar. For example, its sweetness and low calorie content make sorbitol a preferred ingredient in sugar-free confectionery and low-calorie foods.

Pharmaceutical industry.

The production of ascorbic acid, in which sorbitol is the most important intermediate, absorbs 15% of the world’s sorbitol production. In addition, sorbitol is widely used as a pharmaceutical excipient. It is used as one of the main sweeteners in medicines, chewing gums and tablets. Sorbitol can be used in blends with intense sweeteners. Since it is able to have a choleretic effect, it is used in tubage, for example, in chronic cholecystitis. You can find this ingredient in cough syrups and laxatives.

Cosmetic industry.

In cosmetics and personal care products, sorbitol is used as a fragrance and skin moisturizer. It is able to partially or completely replace glycerin in the composition of cosmetics. Its presence significantly improves the texture of cosmetic products, making them velvety and soft. Sorbitol is used in moisturizing creams and masks, liquid powder, makeup base, aftershave lotions, deodorants, shampoos, gels.

Sorbitol is recognized as an ideal base for personal care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. It really prevents the toothpaste from drying out due to its moisturizing property and gives it the necessary viscosity. In addition, sorbitol also has a strong cooling effect. This effect, combined with the ability to suppress cavities, is great for mouthwash recipes.

Chemical industry.

Sorbitol is considered a key chemical ingredient for biomass production.