Is Sorbitol Effective in Treating Constipation?

Sorbitol is a sweetener that widely exists in plant fruits in nature. In industrial production, it is mainly produced by hydrogenation of glucose after starch hydrolysis. It is one of the important products of starch deep processing. It is an important industrial raw material used in medicine, chemical industry, light industry, food and other industries. At present, China's total output and production scale of sorbitol are among the top in the world.

Physicochemical properties of sorbitol.

Sorbitol has a unique flavor, a cool and refreshing taste, and its sweetness is about 60% of that of sucrose at the same concentration. It absorbs heat when dissolved in water. The heat of dissolution is -110.8J/g, which is close to glucose. It is suitable to be added to mint candies, refreshing drinks and other foods to enhance the cooling effect.

The polyhydroxyl structure of sorbitol determines its good moisturizing properties. Adding it to food can adjust the dry humidity of the food, prevent the food from drying out, keep the food fresh and soft, and extend the shelf life of the product. Sorbitol aqueous solution will cause the freezing point to drop. When applied to frozen foods, it can avoid the appearance of ice residue, reduce the precipitation of suspended crystals or precipitates, and effectively improve the taste of the product.

Physiological functions of sorbitol. 

1. A sweetener that can be consumed by diabetics.

The absorption rate of sorbitol in the body is much lower than that of glucose and fructose, and the energy value produced by metabolism is equivalent to that of glucose. In the human body, sorbitol is oxidized to fructose by sorbitol dehydrogenase, and then enters the fructose-1-phosphate pathway for metabolism. This metabolism is not regulated by insulin and does not cause an increase in blood sugar.

Using sorbitol instead of sucrose, glucose and other insulin-requiring sweeteners can improve the tolerance of carbohydrates in diabetics and help them control blood sugar levels.

2. Anti-caries property.

Compared to sucrose, sorbitol is much more anti-caries. After ingesting sucrose, acid will be rapidly produced on the tooth surface, resulting in a decrease in pH. However, the acid generated after ingestion of sorbitol causes less of a decrease in tooth surface pH, and the pH is still greater than the critical value of 5.7, thus greatly reducing the possibility of dental caries. Studies have found that chewing sorbitol-containing gum for 20 minutes each time after a meal can significantly reduce the plaque on the tooth surface 30 days later. It can also promote the remineralization of early caries on the occlusal and buccal surfaces of molars.

Safety of sorbitol.

Toxicological studies have shown that sorbitol has low conventional toxicity. A long-term feeding test on rats found that sorbitol had no harmful effects on the weight gain of male rats, and histopathological examination of major organs showed no abnormality, and only caused mild diarrhea and slowed growth. In human trials, doses greater than 50g/d can cause mild diarrhea, and long-term intake of 40g/d sorbitol has no effect on subjects. Sorbitol has long been recognized as a safe food additive in the United States.

Is sorbitol effective in treating constipation?

Currently, FAO/WHO does not have special regulations on the ADI value of the maximum allowable daily intake of sorbitol, but it must be stated on the food label that "the daily intake should not exceed 50g. Excessive intake may cause diarrhea."

GB2760-2014 "National Food Safety Standards for the Use of Food Additives" stipulates that sorbitol can be used as a sweetener, leavening agent, emulsifier, moisture retaining agent, stabilizer, and thickener. It is the largest ingredient in wet noodle products. The usage amount is 30.0g/kg; the maximum usage amount in frozen surimi products is 0.5g/kg. When used in frozen drinks, jams, candies, pickled vegetables, baked goods, condiments, beverages, puffed foods, soy products, sugar making, and brewing, use appropriate amounts according to production needs.

Sorbitol (for oral use) is an osmotic laxative. Its main mechanism of action is to cause water accumulation in the intestines through osmotic pressure, soften feces, and promote defecation. This mechanism of action is particularly suitable for patients with mild and moderate constipation. It can effectively help patients relieve constipation symptoms, and the effect is relatively mild and will not cause uncomfortable reactions such as diarrhea. It should be noted that sorbitol (for oral use) is a digestive aid and stimulant laxative. The tolerance level varies with each person's body constitution. It is not advisable to take too much when first using it. If symptoms of discomfort occur, it is recommended to go to the hospital in time to clarify the cause and follow the doctor's instructions for targeted treatment. It is recommended to use medication in a standardized manner under the guidance of a doctor. Do not blindly take medication on your own to avoid delaying the condition.