The Dangers of Sorbitol and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
For years we have been told that Sorbitol is safe for use as a sugar substitute because it is a slow-metabolizing sugar alcohol derived from pitted fruits and corn. Unfortunately, there are issues that arise when Sorbitol is ingested on a daily basis. Consumers have been led to believe that sweeteners made with Sorbitol are a safer alternative to refined sugar.
Unfortunately, over the past decade it has been determined that there is a direct link to many health related risks and the biggest cause for concern is the direct link between extended use of Sorbitol and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Sorbitol is a common additive that has replaced sugar, honey and even fructose in many foods and beverages. Unsuspecting consumers believe it is safe for consumption on a daily basis because that is what we have been led to believe. However, it is known to cause flatulence, bloating and even diarrhea.
Most people aren’t aware of the fact that it is the Sorbitol constituent in prunes that is responsible for relieving constipation. Now, taking that into consideration, if you are not constipated but use Sorbitol as a sweetener several times during the span of a day, it is common sense that it can cause runny, loose stools.
This can quickly lead to dehydration because of the ‘osmotic effect,” which is quite simply, reverse osmosis. Fluids are drawn out of cells and flushed back into the intestines. This can cause extreme dehydration, especially if unwitting consumers continue drinking beverages with Sorbitol to relieve the symptoms.
Read labels carefully before buying products that are made with lo-cal sweeteners. Natural Sorbitol in prunes can be a great relief, but as a sugar substitute it can be your worst enemy.
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