A spike in blood glucose can be particularly dangerous for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. This could be because it promotes bacterial fermentation and improves digestion. If you have type 2 diabetes, you should always talk to your doctor for specific guidance, but it may be safe for you to eat products with maltodextrin as long as you factor it into your total carbohydrate intake. always supported by evidencebased research, which she keeps up to date through continuing No liability is assumed by the NCA or Katarina Mollo, MEd, RDN, LDN by providing this information. Fructose-glucose composite carbohydrates and endurance performance: Critical review and future perspectives [Abstract]. However, these studies are primarily done in mice, meaning results may not be the same in humans. Learn whether it is safe to consume here. It can suppress the growth of probiotics in your digestive system, which are important for immune system function. [2] Maltodextrin may be taken as a dietary supplement in powder form, gel packets, or energy drinks. | Benefits, Uses & Nutritional Value, Registered Associate Nutritionist / The World Health Organization (WHO) state that GMOs are safe to consume. (2013). GM corn, which is a genetically modified organism (GMO), is a common source of maltodextrin. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally recognizes maltodextrin as safe and is widely used as a filler, preservative, or thickener in foods and beverages. [6], Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their, such as review articles, monographs, or textbooks. Malt is made from barley, so it contains gluten. Although studies in humans are necessary to confirm this, initial research on mice suggests that people who consume maltodextrin may have a reduced number of good bacteria and an increased quantity of harmful bacteria. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. thirstiness. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Gerasimidis K, et al. Maltodextrin: Dangers, Substitutes, Side Effects, and Benefits - Greatist Brain Res. Ideally, most of those should be complex carbohydrates, which are rich in fiber, rather than simple carbohydrates, which quickly raise your blood sugar. So EY, et al. (2018, March 1). Is maltodextrin derived from corn? Organic foods cannot have GMOs, per the USDA. Another study has linked maltodextrin to the survival of Salmonella bacteria, which may cause gastroenteritis and a broad range of chronic inflammatory conditions. 2018;24(5):1005-1020. doi:10.1093/ibd/izy060, de-la-Cruz M, Milln-Aldaco D, Soriano-Nava DM, Drucker-Coln R, Murillo-Rodrguez E. The artificial sweetener Splenda intake promotes changes in expression of c-Fos and NeuN in hypothalamus and hippocampus of rats. In the United States most maltodextrin is made from corn and is labeled as such. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. (2012). A sudden increase in blood glucose in people with insulin resistance or diabetes can be fatal. A once-weekly insulin helped people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar (glucose) levels, with results similar to or better than daily, Using insulin can be tricky sometimes. The science of anti-caking agents. Just be sure to look for the official USDA organic label. A recent study suggested that maltodextrin may also compromise the ability of cells to respond to bacteria. This food additive is similar to sugar but somewhat controversial. By Myprotein, The glycemic index is a ranking system for how different carbohydrates affect blood sugars. This will also help your body to build muscle more effectively by stimulating a release of insulin, which helps nutrients get where you want them to go in your body. Overall, we are unsure of the impact of maltodextrin on the microbiome. Maltodextrin and diabetes. Starch is a complex carbohydrate made up of long chains of glucose molecules. The starch in these plants is broken down with hydrolysis, a process in which enzymes are broken down using water. Maltodextrin is a white, starchy powder that manufacturers add into many foods to improve their flavor, thickness, or shelf life. Organic tapioca maltodextrin is a powder made from organic tapioca starch that has been hydrolyzed by enzymes. Top 6 Dangers of Maltodextrin and 5 Healthier Substitutes A form of maltodextrin Fibersol-2 is effective in preventing human colorectal tumor cell growth. Maltodextrin is a moderately sweet or almost flavorless powder used as a filler, thickener, texturizer, or coating agent in foods. If you have celiac disease, be careful about eating foods with maltodextrin. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. However, it has a higher glycemic index than table sugar, meaning it will have a more significant effect on raising blood sugar levels. stomach discomfort. Corn starch is often used as the basis for the production of maltodextrin, but also other starchy foods such as potatoes, cereals or rice. We'll, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. All rights reserved. Inflamm Bowel Dis. Although maltodextrin is a polysaccharide, it has minimal solubility in organic solvents. It's made from starchy foods like rice, corn, potatoes or wheat. It is a white powder or concentrated solution produced by partial hydrolysis of starch from corn, potato or rice with acids and enzymes. (2010, October). It also means that you can get back training sooner. Overview of food ingredients, additives & colors. Lost your password? So what is it, and is it good for your health? The bottom line: It's best to limit foods made with maltodextrin to occasional treats. It can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their glucose levels by eating foods that dont cause large spikes in their blood sugar. Nutrition 101 video series: The lowdown on low-calorie sweeteners. 2020;36:82-90. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.01.012, Laudisi F, Di Fusco D, Dinallo V, et al. It is possible to make maltodextrin from any starchy food, including corn, potato, wheat, tapioca, or rice. This article explains what maltodextrin is, how it's used, and how it can affect your body. Maltodextrin is commonly used in food processing. It also does not feature sodium, potassium, protein, calcium, iron or vitamins. What Is Maltodextrin Made From? Its generally considered to be safe, but some new studies disagree. Its production consists of cooking the aforementioned starches before adding acid and sometimes enzymes, for example, bacterial alpha-amylase, which helps to break it down. One study found that maltodextrin in Splenda changed the mice's neuronal (brain cell) activity, impacting parts of the brain responsible for food intake, preferences, obesity, and energy balance. Why Use Maltodextrin? It prevented tumor growth without any apparent toxic side effects. Maltodextrin exists in either a digestible or a digestion-resistant form [ 2 ]. This increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Read Your Food Labels: Watch out for Maltodextrin - MDVIP All rights reserved. This means consuming maltodextrin raises your blood sugar levels higher than sugar. Note: This informationis provided by NCA and Katarina Mollo MEd, RDN, LDN, NCA's Director of Education. It has a wide variety of uses, including as a sweetener in many foods and as a medical treatment for. These foods tend to be low in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Crohns disease-associated adherent-invasive. Dextrose is a simpler form of sugar that your body doesnt need to break down, while maltodextrin features a string of glucose molecules, which can be easily broken down, but not quite as quickly as dextrose. Maltodextrin can provide a quick solution if someones blood sugar level gets too low. Above DE 20, the European Union's CN code calls it glucose syrup; at DE 10 or lower the customs CN code nomenclature classifies maltodextrins as dextrins. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd; 2012:433-470. doi:10.1002/9781118373941.ch20. To produce maltodextrin these starches are cooked at very high temperatures and then enzymes or acids are mixed in until they are broken down into a neutral-tasting powder. Wafer and Waffle. Maltodextrin is typically composed of a mixture of chains that vary from three to 17 glucose units long. Its added to foods like salad dressings and sauces to create a thick consistency. By Isaac Syred, Some stevia brands also contain natural flavors. Maltodextrin is a food additive used to change sugar and enhance the taste, texture and service life of foods. What are some alternatives to maltodextrin? Resistant Maltodextrin: A toxic food additive? - Paleo Foundation Instead, it is best to aim for a more healthful diet of whole-grains and vegetables to boost gut, brain, and heart health. Maltodextrin is a simple carbohydrate that provides you with no nutritional value. The levels of sugar in maltodextrin can lead to weight gain. (1) What Is Dextrose Equivalent (DE)? What is Digestible Maltodextrin & is it Bad For You? Stevia is a popular sugar substitute that is 200 to 300 times sweeter than table sugar yet has few calories. 4 Side Effects of Maltodextrin That You Should Know Gardiner A, et al. You probably know already that many processed foods are made in a way that gives them a longer shelf life. Because maltodextrin causes a fast increase in blood sugar, its an effective treatment for those who have difficulty maintaining adequate blood sugar levels. The process of making it involves cooking the starches and then adding acids or enzymes, such as heat-stable bacterial alpha-amylase, to break it down further. Consuming it in high amounts can lead to weight gain. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally recognizes maltodextrin as safe and is widely used as a filler, preservative, or thickener in foods and beverages. Maltodextrin:A natural active ingredient for noticeably more - sober Common sweeteners that are used in home cooking instead of maltodextrin include: These are all sweeteners that can cause spikes and increases in your blood sugar levels, just like maltodextrin. Our logos and trademarks are for use by licensed affiliates only. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), maltodextrin is a GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) food additive. Unless youre a nutritionist or dietitian, reading nutrition labels will probably introduce you to numerous ingredients you dont recognize. Manufacturers may also use tapioca starch and arrowroot starch as thickeners. It has a glycemic index higher than table sugar, causing blood sugar levels to rise. Navigate to the page search keywords input, What Is Maltodextrin? However, the process of manufacturing maltodextrin includes removing the protein: the part of gluten that causes allergic reactions. There are many reasons manufacturers use maltodextrin. This can help ward off the effects of muscle fatigue, but also can help with muscle growth following a workout. Subscribe to Notifications. You also don't necessarily need supplements before a workout: You can get a carbohydrate boost by having a glass of fruit juice, a cup of yogurt or an English muffin with jelly before exercising if you'll be working out for more than an hour, per the U.S. National Library of Medicine. It can also be combined with artificial sweeteners to sweeten products such as canned fruits, desserts, and powdered drinks. A systematic review of the effects of polyols on gastrointestinal health and irritable bowel syndrome. You can do so with egg yolks, yogurt, gelatin, mustard and vegetable purees, per the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Last medically reviewed on September 23, 2022. What is Maltodextrin in Food? DE, Sources, Uses - FOODADDITIVES ", U.S. Food & Drug Administration: "How GMOs Are Regulated for Food and Plant Safety in the United States", World Health Organization: "Food, genetically modified", Pew Research Center: "Science and Scientists Held in High Esteem Across Global Publics", U.S. Department of Agriculture: "BE Disclosure", U.S. Department of Agriculture: "Can GMOs Be Used in Organic Products? Source Of Energy Limitations Maltodextrin is a highly processed type of carbohydrate. Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe, but if it causes stomach issues or if you suffer from intestinal inflammation, limiting maltodextrin intake may help you manage symptoms. A high GI means that the sugars in these foods will quickly enter the bloodstream, where the body will absorb them. People with celiac disease or gluten intolerance should be aware that, although the production process will remove most of the protein components, maltodextrin derived from wheat may still contain some gluten. Nutrition, health, and regulatory aspects of digestible maltodextrins. Nickerson KP, et al. Is Maltodextrin Vegan and Gluten-Free - Vegans First It is also used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Food manufacturers are required to list all ingredients on food labels. Side effects may include allergic reactions, weight gain, gas, flatulence, and bloating. This is because even though it may come from wheat, it is a by-product of wheat. Can GMOs be used in organic products? Both are put through the process of hydrolysis, which is a chemical process that involves adding water to help to further break them down. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has defined maltodextrins as a "nonsweet nutritive saccharide polymer that consists of D-glucose units linked primarily by (alpha)-1,4 bonds and that has a dextrose equivalent (DE) of less than 20. Maltodextrin is a type of partially hydrolyzed starch that is often used as a thickener in foods. [2] It can be found as an ingredient in a variety of processed foods.[2]. Although the FDA generally recognizes maltodextrin as safe, it raises blood sugar levels, and some studies link it to intestinal inflammation. Effects of resistant maltodextrin on bowel movements: A systematic review and meta-analysis. In contrast, complex carbohydrates, which include beans and whole-wheat pasta, are more healthful because the body absorbs them slowly. Gastrointestinal disturbances associated with the consumption of sugar alcohols with special consideration of xylitol: Scientific review and instructions for dentists and other health-care professionals. Maltodextrin acts as a thickener in processed foods. Sweeteners that may not affect your blood sugar levels as much, as long as you consume them in moderation, include: Sugar alcohols such as polydextrose are used to sweeten foods and can be found in processed foods that are labeled sugar-free or no added sugar.. It doesnt contain gluten and is considered safe for individuals who must follow a gluten-free diet. Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index (GI) value, which means it can cause a spike in your blood sugar. While it has some benefits, such as being gluten-free and having a neutral flavor, it also has some drawbacks: High Glycemic Index: Tapioca maltodextrin has a high glycemic index. According to the Mayo Clinic, these lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of colon cancer: One October 2015 study in the European Journal of Nutrition found that digestion-resistant maltodextrin improved stool volume and consistency, but it was funded by a company that develops maltodextrin. Last medically reviewed on July 11, 2018, Sugar appears in our food in many forms, including sucrose, lactose and fructose. Summary: Maltodextrin is a food additive made from any starch, typically corn or wheat. What Is Maltodextrin And What Are Its Uses? - Thoroughly Nourished Life Maltodextrin, which is sometimes listed as "maltrin" on ingredient lists, is a common food additive. Maltodextrin and gut bacteria. In: Sweeteners and sugar alternatives in food technology. Your body only partially absorbs sugar alcohols, so they do not have the same effect on blood sugar as other sweeteners. Limiting your maltodextrin intake make also help keep your gut bacteria healthy. Maltodextrin is a common ingredient in packaged foods, such as pastries, candies, and soft drinks. [2], It is also used as a filler in sugar substitutes and other products. There are currently no items in your cart. All About Monk Fruit: A Refined Sugar Alternative, 5 Best Sugar Substitutes for People With Diabetes, Nutrition, health, and regulatory aspects of digestible maltodextrins, Chapter two - technology of main ingredientsWater and flours, What is maltodextrin and is it dangerous? By Emily Wilcock, It is mostly present in the packaged food extracted from natural sources, such as corn, rice, potato, wheat, and some other plants. Meanwhile, about 60 percent of all packaged items in a survey of grocery store food items had "maltodextrin" or "modified (corn or wheat) starch" included on the ingredients list. What is Maltodextrin and is it Dangerous? A Review For Non-Scientists This makes people feel full for a more extended period. The additive has been found to impair cellular anti-bacterial responses and suppress gut antimicrobial defense systems, per a March 2015 study in the journal Gut Microbes. Celiac.com 07/03/2020 - In the USA Maltodextrin is generally made from potato, rice or corn, and the "malt" used in the process is not barley malt. Maltodextrins high GI means that it can cause spikes in your blood sugar level, especially if you consume it in large amounts. Its essentially a sweetener and a carbohydrate with no nutritional value, and it causes an increase in blood sugar. (2016). All rights reserved. Maltodextrin and allergen labeling requirements. For athletes and bodybuilders, maltodextrin can be a top source of fast calories and energy. If you've started paying attention to ingredient labels, you've probably come across maltodextrin. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. By Claire Muszalski. professional development and independent learning. What is maltodextrin? Is it safe or is it a health hazard? Processed foods may use high-intensity sweeteners (artificial sugars) that replace sucrose or table sugar. If you have diabetes or celiac disease, use healthier alternatives to the product. Maltodextrin will be listed in the ingredients list of a product. Fisher-Wellman, K. H., & Bloomer, R. J. What is Maltodextrin? Side Effects and Dangers | 8fit Maltodextrin is widely used in food processing since its an inexpensive additive. Food additives like maltodextrin help preserve food's taste, appearance, and texture. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. However, there are some caveats for people with diabetes or gut inflammation. (2015). If wheat is used to make maltodextrin, it has to be listed in the label's allergen statement or ingredients list. Maltodextrin is a white powder that is relatively tasteless and dissolves in water. Get The Complete Guide to Gluten-Free Living. Diet high in omega-3 fatty acids linked to slower ALS progression in new study, thickening foods or liquids to help bind the ingredients together, helping to preserve foods and increase their shelf life, replacing sugar or fat in low-calorie, processed foods. 2018;1700:181-189. doi:10.1016/j.brainres.2018.09.006, Lenhart A, Chey WD. ", Asian Journal of Sports Medicine: "Effect of Glutamine and Maltodextrin Acute Supplementation on Anaerobic Power", European Journal of Nutrition: "Digestion-resistant maltodextrin effects on colonic transit time and stool weight: a randomized controlled clinical study", Johns Hopkins Medicine: "Eating for Your Gut", Cleveland Clinic: "How to Improve Your Digestive Track Naturally", National Celiac Association: "Maltodextrin", Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: "Stabilizers, Thickeners and Gelling Agents", U.S. National Library of Medicine: "Nutrition and athletic performance", PLoS One: The Dietary Polysaccharide Maltodextrin Promotes Salmonella Survival and Mucosal Colonization in Mice, ADM Specialty Food Ingredients: Fibersol-2: Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin, Journal of Nutrition: The Metabolizable Energy of Dietary Resistant Maltodextrin Is Variable and Alters Fecal Microbiota Composition in Adult Men, Eat a wide range of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, Exercise most days of the week (try to fit in at least 30 minutes most days), Eat five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day, Limit how much beef, pork, lamb and processed meat (like bacon or hot dogs) you eat, Cook by steaming, poaching, stewing, microwaving, braising and boiling instead of grilling and frying, Limit foods with animal fats and added sugars like table sugar, Starches such as arrowroot, cornstarch, potato starch, sago and tapioca, Vegetable gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum and locust bean gum, Proteins such as collagen, egg whites, gelatin or whey, Sugars like agar (from algae) or carrageenan (from seaweeds and used to avoid separation in dairy products like ice cream), Lecithin (found in legumes, egg yolk and corn). Tapioca maltodextrin is a white powder made from tapioca starch. Maltodextrin | Organic Materials Review Institute Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Truvia is a popular sugar substitute. Still, it's commonly found in processed foods that are high in refined carbohydrates like frozen desserts and baked goods. dry mouth. Does Eating Too Much Salt Give You Diabetes. Hofman DL, van Buul VJ, Brouns FJPH. Many people believe that maltodextrin is harmful to health. Diets consisting largely of low GI foods are beneficial for everyone, not just people with diabetes. Maltodextrin and dextrose are sugar supplements that are available in powder form that are easily added to, and often already found in many mass building and recovery shakes. But if you choose to avoid GMOs, that doesnt mean you need to avoid all foods that contain maltodextrin. To make maltodextrin, manufacturers put starch through a process called hydrolysis. For anyone concerned about fat and cholesterol, it is believed that because of its zero content, maltodextrin does not lead to fat gains. Maltodextrin is a cheap and effective food product that can improve the texture, taste, and shelf life of foods. The glycemic index (GI) in maltodextrin is higher than in table sugar. Even though it comes from plants, it's highly processed. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Check out our helpful list of confusing ingredients here: https://nationalceliac.org/celiac-disease-resources/confusing-gluten-free-diet-ingredients/. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol. If youre unsure how it will affect your blood sugar, check your glucose levels more often when you add maltodextrin into your diet. Blog > Training > What Is Maltodextrin? Both table sugar and maltodextrin contain four calories per gram. Maltodextrin is an additive used as a preservative, thickener, and bulking agent. Maltodextrin may raise your blood sugar, but that doesn't necessarily mean people with type 2 diabetes need to avoid it, per a physician-reviewed article from ConsumerLab. However, it does not contain barley. About half of people surveyed around the world believe genetically modified foods are unsafe to eat (and only 13 percent believe they are safe), according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted between 2019 and 2020. Ultra-processed foods make up 58 percent of the total calories in the average American diet, but these foods are linked with obesity, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, per the American College of Cardiology. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Maltodextrin is a common ingredient in packaged foods,. This explains why companies use it in large quantities in making energy drinks and sports drinks. Its even used as a thickener in personal care items such as lotion and hair care products. The process of making the powder removes all protein, including gluten, but traces may still be found. Maltodextrin may affect the balance of bacteria in the gut. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Tapioca maltodextrin is a type of starch made from tapioca. But in reality, eating too much sodium doesnt directly cause diabetes. However, some people may find that they cause bloating and flatulence. Summary The USDA labels maltodextrin as GRAS, or Generally Recognized as Safe. Many food additives can cause allergies or intolerances. Food Insight. Because of this, you may want to avoid it or limit your consumption of it if you have diabetes or insulin resistance.
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