Scientists discover a hidden problem with this popular sugar substitute
New research suggests that the sugar substitute sorbitol may have metabolic effects similar to fructose, which is linked to liver disease and cancer cell growth. The study indicates that the body can convert glucose into sorbitol, complicating the assumption that sugar alternatives are inherently healthier.
Why it matters
This challenges the health claims of common food additives, potentially impacting dietary guidelines and consumer health choices.
Sugar substitutes are often marketed as a better choice than foods loaded with refined sugar (glucose). Common examples include aspartame, the sweetener used in Equal packets, sucralose (Splenda), and sugar alcohols such as sorbitol.
But growing research is complicating the idea that these alternatives are automatically healthier. A new study suggests that sorbitol, in particular, may have metabolic effects that make it less harmless than many people assume.
Sorbitol May Be One Step Away From Fructose
The research, published recently in Science Signaling , builds on a line of research from Gary Patti's laboratory at Washington University in St. Louis examining how fructose affects the liver and other parts of the body.
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