What Is Polydextrose And Its Structure?

Polydextrose is a polysaccharide composed of randomly cross-linked glucose, containing all glycosidic bonds such as α and β (1-2), β (1-3), β (1-4),  andβ (1-6) glycosidic bonds.It is mainly composed of β (1-6) glycosidic bonds with average degree of polymerization greater than 12  and its relative molecular mass greater than 2000. It can be synthesized from glucose and sorbitol. Because it is mainly β (1-6) glycosidic bond, which makes it has good stability (very stable to acid and heat), water solubility, and viscosity changes with temperature and concentration.

Due to its complex structure, polydextrose cannot be hydrolyzed by digestive enzymes when passing through the stomach and small intestine. It completely enters the large intestine after ingestion, and about 30% is fermented by intestinal microorganisms to generate volatile fatty acids and carbon dioxide. The remaining 60% is excreted in the feces. Therefore, polydextrose generates low calories, rarely converts into fat, and does not cause obesity. It is an ideal ingredient in low-calorie foods.

As a water-soluble dietary fiber, polydextrose can shorten the emptying time of food in the stomach, shorten the time for feces to pass through the intestines, promote intestinal peristalsis, facilitate the discharge of feces, and relieve constipation.

Polydextrose has prebiotic properties and is not digested in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. After reaching the colon, it is fermented by intestinal flora, promotes the reproduction of intestinal probiotics (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, etc.) and inhibits Growth of harmful bacteria (Clostridia and Bacteroidetes). Polydextrose has the effect of lowering blood sugar levels. On the one hand, it is not absorbed by itself and has a low glycemic index; on the other hand, it can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce insulin demand, and inhibit insulin secretion. In addition, polydextrose can also promote the absorption of minerals, fight dental caries, and regulate blood lipids.