Last verified: 17 days ago
Maltitol
Also known as: maltitol syrup, E 965, E 965i, 4-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-glucitol, hydrogenated maltose
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Sugar alcohol sweetener that causes less blood sugar spike than sugar and may support dental health.
-
What it does
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used as a low-glycemic sweetener in foods like cookies, chocolate, and chewing gum. When used in place of regular sugar, it produces a significantly smaller...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
No established dose from provided studies
What the Science Says
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used as a low-glycemic sweetener in foods like cookies, chocolate, and chewing gum. When used in place of regular sugar, it produces a significantly smaller rise in blood glucose — studies in people with type 2 diabetes show it reduces postprandial glycemic response compared to standard carbohydrates. Chewing gum containing maltitol has also shown modest benefits for reducing gum inflammation and plaque in the absence of regular brushing.
What It Doesn't Do
Not a weight-loss ingredient on its own. Doesn't remineralize tooth enamel — lab studies show it has no direct effect on calcium uptake into teeth. Not as effective as xylitol for reducing cavity-causing bacteria. Not a diabetes treatment or blood sugar medication.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Causes a smaller blood sugar spike than regular sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 25g digestible carbohydrate equivalent
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Foods made with maltitol instead of sugar have a low glycemic index in healthy adults.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: Used as sugar substitute in baked goods
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Chewing maltitol gum reduces gum bleeding and inflammation when brushing is not performed.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 5 pieces/day for 3 weeks
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Maltitol shows no mutagenic or genotoxic activity in laboratory safety testing.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: Up to 5000 µg/plate (in vitro)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Moderate — maltitol is partially absorbed in the small intestine; the remainder is fermented by gut bacteria, which is why it can cause digestive side effects at higher doses.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea at higher doses — often labeled with 'excess consumption may have a laxative effect'
- Still raises blood sugar more than xylitol or erythritol — not truly 'sugar-free' in its glycemic impact
- Widely used in 276+ supplement products, often in liquid formulations, where it may contribute unexpected calories or GI effects
- Safety data on mutagenicity was only recently requested by European regulators (2023), suggesting long-term safety data gaps
Products Containing Maltitol
See how Maltitol is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Maltitol do?
Sugar alcohol sweetener that causes less blood sugar spike than sugar and may support dental health.
What is the effective dose of Maltitol?
No established dose from provided studies
Is Maltitol safe?
Can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea at higher doses — often labeled with 'excess consumption may have a laxative effect'
What doesn't Maltitol do?
Not a weight-loss ingredient on its own.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25