What on earth are Sugar Alcohols?

Sugar alcohols are a type of sweetener that are often used as alternatives to regular sugar. Despite their name, sugar alcohols contain no alcoholic, nor do they contain any sugar. They got their name because their chemical structure is a mix between sugar molecules and alcohol molecules.

Sugar alcohols occur naturally in some fruits and vegetables, but they can also be made through a manufacturing process. They have a sweet taste, similar to sugar, but they don't affect our blood sugar levels as much as regular sugar does. This makes them popular for people who are managing diabetes or trying to reduce their sugar intake.

When we eat foods or sweets that contain sugar alcohols, our bodies don't fully break them down like they do with regular sugar. As a result, sugar alcohols can provide fewer calories than sugar and have less impact on our blood sugar levels. Additionally, sugar alcohols are generally less likely to cause tooth decay compared to regular sugar.

Common examples of sugar alcohols include isomalt, xylitol, erythritol, and maltitol. You can find them in sugar-free gum, candies, and baked goods marketed as "sugar-free" or "no added sugar" products.

It's worth noting that consuming large amounts of sugar alcohols may sometimes cause digestive discomfort, such as gas or diarrhea, since our bodies can't fully absorb them. However, in moderate amounts, sugar alcohols can be a helpful tool for those looking to enjoy sweet flavors while being mindful of their overall sugar intake.