Lactitol

Definition

Lactitol is a sugar alcohol sugar substitute produced from lactose. Lactitol is 40% as sweet as sucrose and contains 2.4 calories per gram.

Health considerations

Lactitol can have a laxative effect, causing gas, bloating, and diarrhea with as little as 10g of intake, but typically closer to 25g. It is used medically as a laxative. Lactitol has no effect on blood sugar and does not cause tooth decay.

Keep in mind

Lactitol is unlikely to trigger symptoms in lactose intolerant individuals.

May be found in

Ice cream, chocolate, hard and soft candies, baked goods, sugar-reduced preserves, chewing gums and sugar substitutes

References

Gut
European Journal of Nutrition
Polyols
Food-Info

Alternative Spellings and Names

E966