Weight Management & Diet
Maltitol metabolism
Maltitol is digested in two steps: absorption in the small intestine and fermentation in the large intestine. These two metabolic pathways must be considered together when evaluating energy content. About 20% of maltitol is hydrolyzed in the small intestine, releasing sorbitol (slowly metabolized) and glucose (absorbed). This phase of digestion is quantified as 4 Kcal/g.The non-absorbed sorbitol and non-hydrolyzed maltitol are fermented by the microflora in the colon. This fermentation contributes an energy value of about 2 Kcal/g. The relative importance of the two absorption pathways depends upon numerous individual factors and is related to the quantity of maltitol ingested.
Low caloric value
- Partly fermented in the colon, MALTISORB® maltitol benefits from a low caloric value. The product of this fermentation, especially short chain fatty acids, contributes to the satiety effect. (LIVESEY, 1995).
- MALTISORB® maltitol's low energy value compares favorably with a value of 4 Kcal/g for sugars and 9 Kcal/g for fat.
Shown below is the regulatory caloric value applied to maltitol in various regions:
|
EU |
USA |
Japan |
Mercosur |
|
2.4 Kcal/g |
2.1 Kcal/g |
2 Kcal/g |
2.4 Kcal/g |









