Lactitol is a sugar alcohol that is commonly used as a sugar substitute. It is a white crystalline powder that is derived from lactose, a sugar found in milk.
Lactitol is used in a variety of products including baked goods, dairy products, candies, and chewing gum. It is also used as a sweetener in many medicinal products, such as cough syrups, and as an ingredient in oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash.
Health benefits of lactitol include:
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Low glycemic index: Lactitol has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This makes it a suitable sweetener for people with diabetes.
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Reduces tooth decay: Lactitol is resistant to fermentation by oral bacteria and does not promote tooth decay.
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Improves digestive health: Lactitol is not completely digested in the small intestine, which means it can reach the large intestine where it can be fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids that are beneficial for gut health.
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Low in calories: Lactitol has a lower caloric value compared to sugar. It provides only about 2.4 calories per gram compared to sugar’s 4 calories per gram.
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Low glycemic load: Lactitol has a low glycemic load, which means it has a minimal effect on blood sugar levels.
Lactitol does not contain any significant nutrients per serving. However, it does not contribute to the formation of cavities and may improve digestive health. A serving of 50 grams of lactitol contains approximately 120 calories.