Some women, wanting to lose weight, try to replace sugar in their diet with various sweeteners. This desire is based on the fact that sugar substitutes contain less carbohydrates , and, accordingly, fewer calories.
One of their popular sweeteners is isomalt, the harm and benefit of which you can find conflicting information. Sweets producers use this sweetener extensively, because besides sweet properties, it is also a preservative that prevents caking and clumping. In addition, it is used as a filler and glazing agent.
Properties of isomalt sweetener
The sweetener isomalt (E953) refers to natural sweeteners. It is found in nature in sugar beet, sugar cane and honey, from which it is isolated. Most researchers are convinced of the safety of this sweetener, since it refers to natural products. However, there is an opinion that with frequent use, the isomalt sweetener will bring harm: it will negatively affect the state of the gastrointestinal tract.
According to its taste, isomalt resembles sucrose, but has only half of its sweetness. This sugar substitute is poorly absorbed by the walls of the intestine, so isomalt is allowed in diabetics.
This sugar substitute belongs to the group of low-caloric organic compounds. Its calorific value is 240 units per 100 g, in contrast to sugar, the calorie content of which is 400 units. However, it is worth considering that to obtain a sweet effect it is required more than sugar. Therefore, as a result, the body will receive virtually the same number of calories as when consuming sugar.
Unlike sugar, isomalt molecules do not promote bacteria in the oral cavity. Therefore, this sugar substitute does not cause caries. In favor of using isomalt, he says that he is a prebiotic. Like vegetable fiber, isomalt works like a ballast substance, which increases the feeling of satiety. Energy from isomalt is extracted gradually, so the body does not experience sharp jumps of sugar.
The harm of isomalt can be felt on yourself when it is used in large quantities. However, this is also true of many other products. With moderate use, isomalt will help make life sweeter and will not do any harm.