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Maltitol, Sorbitol & Xylitol (Polyol Sugar Alcohols)

Classification & Synonyms: E965 / E420 / High-FODMAP Osmotic Polyols · 📄 View Raw Markdown (.md)

CLINICAL TOXICOLOGY & METABOLIC BENCHMARK ⚡ 90/100 (#1 Cause of 'Keto/Protein Bar' Severe Distension)

Glycemic & Insulin Impact 35–52 for Maltitol (Still spikes blood glucose significantly!)

Gut Microbiome & Mucosal Mechanism Poorly absorbed in the small intestine; pulls excess water into the bowel lumen via osmosis and undergoes rapid bacterial hydrogen/methane fermentation in the colon within 45 minutes.

US FDA vs. EU EFSA Status Requires laxative warning above 20g–50g daily intake in US/EU

❌ Commonly Hidden In 'Keto' chocolate candies, low-carb protein bars, sugar-free gummy vitamins, chewing gums

✅ NURA Verified Clean Swap Whole Medjool Date (paired with walnuts/tahini to blunt GI), RXBAR, or 85% Dark Chocolate

DIRECT CLINICAL ATTRIBUTION

"Maltitol is the worst of both worlds: it has a Glycemic Index of 52 (nearly as high as table sugar) while leaving 40% unabsorbed to ferment violently in your colon, causing afternoon abdominal distension."
— NURA Clinical Nutrition & Gut-Metabolic Research Review (2026)

Frequently Asked Clinical Questions

Q: Why do protein bars make my stomach look bloated for hours?

90% of commercial 'low-carb' protein bars rely on 10g–16g of maltitol, sorbitol, or chicory inulin root fiber compressed together, creating an osmotic fermentation bomb.

Q: Which snack bars won't cause gas or bloating?

Choose whole-food bars with fewer than 5 ingredients (such as egg whites, dates, almonds, and sea salt) or raw macadamia/walnut packs.

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