They may harm the liver... A recent study casts doubt on the safety of sweeteners.

 

sorbitol

They may harm the liver... A recent study casts doubt on the safety of sweeteners

A new scientific study has shown that sorbitol, a sugar alcohol widely used in "low-calorie" and "sugar-free" products, may not be as safe as thought, as it can be converted inside the body into compounds that behave in a manner similar to fructose, potentially causing stress on the liver and metabolic disturbances.

The study, published in the journal Science Signaling, was conducted as part of research led by scientist Gary Patti at Washington University in St. Louis, and focuses on understanding the effect of alternative sugars on the liver.

Surprising results

Researchers have found that sorbitol can be produced in the intestines from glucose after eating, even in healthy people, and not just in disease conditions such as diabetes, according to the website "sciencedaily".

Then, if there are no intestinal bacteria capable of breaking it down, sorbitol moves to the liver where it is converted into a fructose derivative, triggering metabolic responses similar to those associated with fructose, which is known to have a negative effect on the liver.

The role of gut bacteria

The study also revealed that certain types of gut bacteria can break down sorbitol and convert it into harmless byproducts. However, in the absence of these bacteria, or when large amounts of sorbitol or glucose are consumed, this defense mechanism fails, allowing sorbitol to accumulate and reach the liver.

Health indicators

The results indicated that relying on alternative sweeteners, especially among diabetics or those seeking to reduce sugar consumption, may not be risk-free.
Sorbitol, despite being marketed as a “light” ingredient, can contribute to the development of fatty liver and metabolic problems when consumed in excess.
The study confirmed that the idea of ​​a "safe sugar substitute" is not always accurate, and that some sugar alcohols may follow unexpected pathways within the body. According to the researchers, more research is still needed, but the main message is clear: reducing sugar does not necessarily mean avoiding its effects on the liver.