Sorbitol (C6H14O6) is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industry as a sweetener or humectant (for protection against loss of moisture content). It is produced by hydrogenation of glucose and is available in liquid and crystalline form. It also occurs naturally in many fresh fruits and berries.
Sorbitol is also found commonly in "sugar-free" chewing gum, and may be used to sweeten pharmaceutical dosage forms such as syrups or chewable tablets.
Excessive consumption of sorbitol may lead to a laxative effect, but the small amount used in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes would not normally pose this risk.
Uses of Sorbitol
Sorbitol is a widely used sugar alcohol for several reasons.
- First, sugar alcohols are often used in foods and beverages in place of traditional sugar to reduce their calorie content. Sorbitol contains approximately two-thirds of the calories of table sugar and provides about 60% of the sweetness .
- It’s also not fully digested in your small intestine. What remains of the compound from there moves into the large intestine where it’s instead fermented, or broken down by bacteria, resulting in fewer calories being absorbed .
- Second, the sweetener is often added to foods marketed to people with diabetes. That’s because it has very little effect on blood sugar levels when eaten, compared with foods made with traditional sweeteners like table sugar.
- Third, unlike table sugar, sugar alcohols like sorbitol don’t contribute to the formation of cavities. This is one reason why they’re often used to sweeten sugar-free chewing gum and liquid medications.
- In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognized that sugar alcohols like sorbitol may benefit oral health. This is based on a study that found that sorbitol may reduce cavity risk compared with table sugar, although not to the same extent as other sugar alcohols.
- Lastly, it’s used on its own as a laxative to combat constipation. It’s hyperosmotic, meaning it draws water into the colon from surrounding tissues to promote bowel movements. It can be purchased for this purpose at most grocery and drug stores without a prescription.
Dosage and how to take it
Sorbitol for laxative use can be found both as a rectal enema or liquid solution to be taken orally. You can take it orally with a glass of water or mixed into flavored beverages, with or without food.
Recommended dosages vary. Some studies indicate that unwanted side effects are more likely if you consume 10 grams or more per day. Additionally, one study found that malabsorption was more likely with doses of 10 grams — even among healthy individuals .
The FDA requires that labels on foods that could cause you to consume more than 50 grams daily include the warning: “Excess consumption may have a laxative effect”.
That’s because taking too much sorbitol can cause severe digestive side effects and electrolyte imbalances, although there’s no evidence that the compound can cause toxicity.
If you think you’ve taken too much sorbitol and are experiencing significant symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Be prepared to provide information about the dosage and your symptoms, including the timing of their onset.
Ultimately, it’s best to follow consumer directions on the packaging. Alternatively, consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about appropriate dosing and usage.
Benefits of Sorbitol
- It has Moisturizing Properties. It is used as a humectant by pulling water into skin leaving it hydrated and nourished.This compound also acts as a thickener which improves the formulation or consistency of products which avoids Moisture loss from skin.
- It Conditioning properties help in Scalp treatment. Nourishing qualities of sugar alcohol are used to treat scalp issues like dandruff, flakiness, and psoriasis.
- Healthy Hair -It washes away all chemicals and product build-up from hair strands as well as the scalp. Organic sorbitol powder makes the appearance of hair smooth, healthy, strong and thick.
- Protects Skin-Sorbitol acts as a shield against skin damage and protects skin from external elements like pollution and chemical-based ingredients. The application of this compound helps to protect skin from harmful UV Rays and issues related to it. It defends skin from the microbiome, harmful bacteria, and infection.
- Stabilizing Agent-Sorbitol powder is chemically inert and compatible that remains stable with most chemical compounds. It is unaffected by acids and alkaline compounds. It doesn't corrode in air and remains unchanged at elevated temperatures or in presence of amines.
Why Try Sorbitol?
If you’ve been looking for a healthy way to support blood sugar, digestion, dental health and hydration, sorbitol may be the right supplement for you. There are several potential health benefits of it, all of which may result in a healthy overall lifestyle. It is increasingly popular for patients with diabetes or people who follow low-carb diets because it typically does not interfere with blood sugar and is low in calories.
However, be sure to consult a doctor before taking it to make sure the supplement is the right one for you. Different patients may react differently to it. Although it may provide health benefits, it may not be the right supplement for everyone.
Where to Buy Sorbitol?
Aogubio is a company specialized in the Produces and distribution of pharmacologically active substances, raw materials and plant extracts, nutraceuticals for the production of supplements for human use, products for the pharmacy and for the pharmaceutical, food, nutritional and cosmetic industries.
Article writing:Niki Chen
Post time: Apr-22-2024
