Today we are talking about polyhydric alcohols (or polyols).
What they are. Polyols are naturally occurring sugars that are used primarily in the confectionery industry as sweeteners. Very often we also find them within dietary supplements, particularly in protein bars. Polyols are divided into monosaccharides (mannitol, sorbitol and xylitol) and disaccharides (maltitol, lactitol). They are considered 'safe' substances in the sense that they do not have any form of harmful contraindications currently found in the human body. The advantages that are attributed to these sweeteners are low energy value, they are non-cariogenic (which is why for example they are used particularly in chewing gum), and their metabolism is independent of insulin, thus making them suitable even for diabetics.
The contraindication of these sweeteners, when used in supplements particularly for sportsmen, may result from their laxative effect caused by water recall due to the osmotic effect that can be caused.
In particular, it has been found that mannitol is absorbed with difficulty by the body and can have a laxative effect by taking quantities of 10g-20g. Sorbitol and xylitol also have laxative effects but at higher amounts of about 50g, while maltitol goes up to 100g.
The laxative effect of polyols can be accumulative. This means that if small amounts of polyols are consumed repeatedly throughout the day, the laxative effect may occur.
Another possible contraindication they may have if taken by the athlete before or during physical activity is caused by their slow absorption.
To avoid unwanted laxative effects, it is important to pay attention to the amount of polyols consumed and to one's individual reactions. If you have a known sensitivity to polyols or if you suspect that polyol consumption may cause gastrointestinal problems, it is best to limit your intake. In addition, reading food labels carefully can help identify the presence of polyols in products. If you experience persistent or worrisome gastrointestinal problems, you should consult a physician or dietitian for a full evaluation.
What they are. Polyols are naturally occurring sugars that are used primarily in the confectionery industry as sweeteners. Very often we also find them within dietary supplements, particularly in protein bars. Polyols are divided into monosaccharides (mannitol, sorbitol and xylitol) and disaccharides (maltitol, lactitol). They are considered 'safe' substances in the sense that they do not have any form of harmful contraindications currently found in the human body. The advantages that are attributed to these sweeteners are low energy value, they are non-cariogenic (which is why for example they are used particularly in chewing gum), and their metabolism is independent of insulin, thus making them suitable even for diabetics.
The contraindication of these sweeteners, when used in supplements particularly for sportsmen, may result from their laxative effect caused by water recall due to the osmotic effect that can be caused.
In particular, it has been found that mannitol is absorbed with difficulty by the body and can have a laxative effect by taking quantities of 10g-20g. Sorbitol and xylitol also have laxative effects but at higher amounts of about 50g, while maltitol goes up to 100g.
The laxative effect of polyols can be accumulative. This means that if small amounts of polyols are consumed repeatedly throughout the day, the laxative effect may occur.
Another possible contraindication they may have if taken by the athlete before or during physical activity is caused by their slow absorption.
To avoid unwanted laxative effects, it is important to pay attention to the amount of polyols consumed and to one's individual reactions. If you have a known sensitivity to polyols or if you suspect that polyol consumption may cause gastrointestinal problems, it is best to limit your intake. In addition, reading food labels carefully can help identify the presence of polyols in products. If you experience persistent or worrisome gastrointestinal problems, you should consult a physician or dietitian for a full evaluation.