Lactitol

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Lactitol

Lactitol (/lækˈtɪtɔːl/) is a sugar alcohol used as a replacement sweetener in low sugar and sugar-free foods. It is derived from lactose, a disaccharide found in milk.

Etymology

The term "Lactitol" is derived from Lactose, the sugar found in milk, and the suffix "-itol" which is commonly used in the naming of sugar alcohols.

Usage

Lactitol is used in a variety of low food energy or low fat foods. High stability makes it popular for baking, and it is also used in sugar-free candies, cookies, chocolate, and ice cream. Lactitol also promotes colon health as a prebiotic. Because of its similarity in taste to sugar, it is often found in "sugar-free" or "low-carbohydrate" products.

Health Effects

Lactitol is a low-calorie sweetener that provides a smaller effect on blood glucose levels than sugar. It is also used in the medical field as a laxative. However, overconsumption can lead to bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping.

Related Terms

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