Maltodextrin Exposed: The Hidden Sugar Found in Sugar-Free Sweeteners

This article discusses the dangers of maltodextrin hidden in sugar-free sweeteners.

Many people turn to artificial sweeteners as a substitute in their quest to cut sugar and calories from their diets.

While marketed as a healthier alternative, some artificial sweeteners contain maltodextrin, which can seriously affect blood sugar levels, weight management, and overall health.

What Is Maltodextrin?

Maltodextrin is a processed carbohydrate derived from starchy foods like corn, rice, or potatoes.

Due to its low cost and neutral flavor, it is commonly used as a filler or bulking agent in powdered sweeteners, snacks, and processed foods.

Despite being labeled “sugar-free,” maltodextrin products may cause significant blood sugar spikes.

 

---

Maltodextrin and Its High Glycemic Index

The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly a food raises blood sugar. Maltodextrin has an exceptionally high GI, typically between 85 and 105, even higher than table sugar (GI ~65).

This means maltodextrin is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream, leading to:

1. Blood Sugar Spikes: For individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, consuming maltodextrin can cause dangerous surges in blood glucose levels.
2. Insulin Resistance: Frequent blood sugar spikes force the pancreas to produce more insulin, increasing the risk of insulin resistance over time.
3. Weight Gain: Excess glucose from maltodextrin can be stored as fat, promoting weight gain despite consuming “sugar-free” products.

---

Common Artificial Sweeteners Containing Maltodextrin

Several artificial sweeteners use maltodextrin as a carrier or bulking agent, negating the blood sugar benefits they claim to provide. Examples include:

1. Splenda (Sucralose): Often mixed with maltodextrin or dextrose to make it measure like sugar.
2. Equal (Aspartame): Packets frequently contain maltodextrin, increasing their caloric content and glycemic impact.
3. Sweet’N Low (Saccharin): Its powdered form includes maltodextrin as a filler.
4. Stevia Blends: Some stevia-based sweeteners mix pure stevia extract with maltodextrin to create bulk for easier recipe use.

---

Healthier Alternatives to Artificial Sweeteners with Maltodextrin

If you want to avoid maltodextrin, consider these alternatives:

• Pure stevia leaf extract- Durelife 100% Pure stevia extract sweetener 8 oz
• Monk fruit extract- Durelife Organic 100% Pure Monk Fruit sweetener
• Allulose- NatureBell Allulose Sweetener, 5 Lbs | Keto & Vegan-Friendly
• Pure erythritol- Durelife USDA organic erythritol sweetener 5 lb, non-GMO verified, Keto-certified
• Whole-leaf stevia- FreshDrinkUS, Premium 300+ Natural Stevia Leaves, Whole Dried Leaves, 100% Pure Stevia Dried Leaves

---

Tips for Spotting Maltodextrin in Labels

When shopping for sugar substitutes, always:

1. Check the ingredient list for maltodextrin or dextrose, modified food starch, dextrin, and corn syrup solids
2. Be wary of terms like “bulking agent” or “filler”,
3. Opt for products labeled as pure sweeteners without additives.

---

Health Recommendations

1. Choose liquid sweeteners when possible
2. Opt for pure versions of natural sweeteners
3. Read ingredient labels carefully
4. Consider using whole-food sweeteners like fruits
5. Monitor blood sugar response to different products

The Bottom Line

Maltodextrin in artificial sweeteners can be a hidden culprit for blood sugar spikes and weight gain, undermining efforts to manage diabetes or maintain a healthy weight.

Understanding ingredient labels and choosing healthier sweetener options can help you stay on track with your health goals.

Don’t Get Sick!

Stay current by subscribing. Feel free to share and like.

If you find value in this website, please consider buying a coffee or two or five to show your support.

Related:

• Comprehensive Guide to the Permanent Reversal of Insulin Resistance
• 102 Easy Ways to Lower Post-Prandial Blood Sugar Without Meds
• Blood Sugar’s Hidden Aging Effects: From Wrinkles To Weakness
• High Blood Sugar and Vision: A Guide for Everyone
• High Blood Sugar Awakens Sleeping Skin Fungi

---

References

1. Ludwig, D. S. (2002). “The Glycemic Index: Physiological Mechanisms Relating to Obesity, Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Disease.” JAMA, 287(18), 2414-2423. DOI: 10.1001/jama.287.18.2414
2. Livesey, G. (2003). “Health Potential of Polyols as Sugar Replacers, with Emphasis on Low Glycaemic Properties.” Nutrition Research Reviews, 16(2), 163-191. DOI: 10.1079/NRR200365
3. American Diabetes Association. (2022). “Diabetes Meal Planning.” Available at diabetes.org
4. Hofman DL, van Buul VJ, Brouns FJ. “Nutrition, Health, and Regulatory Aspects of Digestible Maltodextrins.” Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2016;56(12):2091-100.
5. Samuel P, et al. “Maltodextrin: A Review of the Literature and its Applications in Food Science.” Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2018;55(4):1227-1284.
6. Jenkins DJ, et al. “Glycemic index of foods: a physiological basis for carbohydrate exchange.” Am J Clin Nutr. 1981;34(3):362-366.
7. Wang Y, et al. “Effects of the Glycemic Index of Foods on Blood Glucose and Insulin Responses in Humans.” Diabetes Care, 2015;38(4):637-643.

© 2018 – 2024 Asclepiades Medicine, LLC. All Rights Reserved
DrJesseSantiano.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.