Sugar Alcohol
Sugar alcohol is commonly used as a sugar substitute because it is absorbed very slowly into the bloodstream. It is found in a variety of forms, including xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol and others. Made by the hydrogenation of glucose, it is found in may processed foods such as hard candies, cookies, chewing gum, soft-drinks, energy/protein bars, and other "sugar-free" products. They are also often used in toothpaste and mouthwash.
Sugar alcohols have about half to one third less calories than regular sugar. They are converted into glucose slowly, cause little or no insulin to be metabolized and will not cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Sugar alcohol does not cause tooth decay.
Sounds too good to be true? Not really. There are some negative side effects associated with consuming sugar alcohols. Some people experience bloating, diarrhea or a laxative effect. Unlike artificial sweeteners such as saccharin and aspartame which contain zero calories, sugar alcohols contain 2.6 calories per gram. Regular sugar is 4 calories per gram.
Sugar alcohol provides sweet flavor to food products marketed toward people with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association states that sugar alcohols are acceptable in moderate amounts and should never be eaten in excess.
If you see the term "sugar free" or "no sugar added" on a product, it may contain sugar alcohols. It is listed under the Total Carbohydrate section on the nutrition label.