Sorbitol

Sweetener

Sorbitol at a glance

Category
Sweetener
Also called
D-glucitol
Commonly found in
Sugar-free gum, Diet sodas, Sugar-free candies, Baked goods
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Sorbitol?

Sorbitol is a type of sugar alcohol that is frequently used as a low-calorie sweetener in foods and pharmaceuticals. It is naturally occurring in many fruits, such as apples, peaches, prunes, and pears, but commercially, it is typically derived from corn syrup. Sorbitol provides a sweet taste with fewer calories than sugar and does not contribute to tooth decay.

Also known as:

D-glucitol

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeAvoid

Sorbitol is a sugar typically derived from corn syrup, and which can also be found in apples, peaches, prunes and pears. It's used to sweeten a variety of goods ranging from beverages to medications.

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Low FODMAPAvoid

Sorbitol, sometimes referred to as glucitol, is a polyol, which makes it high FODMAP at a normal serving size.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

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Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

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Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

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VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Sorbitol

People may avoid sorbitol for several reasons. Firstly, it is often derived from corn syrup, which poses a problem for individuals with corn allergies or those following a corn-free diet. Additionally, sorbitol can cause digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially when consumed in large quantities, as it is slowly metabolized in the intestines. This is a concern for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal sensitivities.

Potential Reactions

  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Sorbitol

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Related to Sorbitol

Other ingredients people often check alongside Sorbitol.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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