Sugar Alcohol
Sweetener
Sugar Alcohol at a glance
- Category
- Sweetener
- Also called
- Polyols
- Commonly found in
- Sugar-free gum, Sugar-free candies, Diet sodas, Low-calorie desserts
- Diets reviewed
- 26 diets
What is Sugar Alcohol?
Sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, are a type of low-calorie sweetener commonly used as sugar substitutes in various food products. They are chemically similar to sugar and alcohol but do not contain ethanol. Common sugar alcohols include sorbitol, xylitol, and erythritol. They provide a sweet taste with fewer calories than regular sugar and are often found in sugar-free and reduced-calorie products.
Also known as:
Diet Compatibility
Sugar alcohols are polyols, many of which are high FODMAP at a normal serving size.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Sugar Alcohol
People may avoid sugar alcohols because they are high in FODMAPs, which can trigger digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, especially in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or those following a low-FODMAP diet. Some sugar alcohols like sorbitol and mannitol are more likely to cause digestive distress than others like erythritol, which is generally better tolerated.
Potential Reactions
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
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 Sugar Alcohol
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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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