Sorbitol Calories

Sorbitol is generally considered safe in the amounts used in foods, but it can cause digestive symptoms when you consume too much. Because it is absorbed slowly, excess sorbitol may lead to gas, bloating, cramps, or diarrhea.

Yes, sorbitol can cause diarrhea, especially when consumed in larger amounts. Some of it may remain unabsorbed in the intestine and draw water into the bowel, which is why sorbitol can have a laxative effect.

Sorbitol usually has less effect on blood glucose than table sugar, but its effect is not zero. Products made with sorbitol can still contain carbohydrates, so “sugar-free” does not necessarily mean carbohydrate-free.

Sorbitol occurs naturally in fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, and plums. Manufacturers also use it in sugar-free gum, mints, candies, baked goods, and some oral-care products to add sweetness or retain moisture.

Sorbitol may be a lower-impact sweetener than regular sugar, but a sorbitol-containing product can still affect blood glucose and contribute carbohydrates. People with diabetes should consider the product’s serving size and total carbohydrate content.

Sorbitol sweetens sugar-free gum without feeding cavity-causing mouth bacteria as readily as ordinary sugar. It also helps keep gum moist and pliable, though eating a lot of sorbitol-containing gum may upset the stomach.

Some people with irritable bowel syndrome find that sorbitol triggers bloating, gas, cramps, or diarrhea. Sorbitol is a polyol that can be poorly absorbed, so people sensitive to FODMAPs may need to limit sorbitol-containing foods.

No, sorbitol and xylitol are different sugar alcohols. Xylitol is generally sweeter and closer in sweetness to sugar, while sorbitol is less sweet; both can cause digestive symptoms when eaten in excess.

Yes, sorbitol naturally occurs in several fruits, particularly stone fruits such as plums and peaches, as well as apples and pears. Drying fruit does not remove it, so dried fruit can still be a source of sorbitol.