Last verified: 43 days ago
Maltodextrin
Also known as: MDX, glucose polymer, starch hydrolysate, corn maltodextrin
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Common food additive and supplement filler. Mostly used as a placebo in studies, not as an active ingredient.
-
What it does
Maltodextrin is a processed carbohydrate made from starch (usually corn, wheat, or potato). In supplements, it is almost universally used as a filler, binder, or placebo control — not as an active...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
No established dose from provided studies — used as placebo/excipient in most trials
-
Found in
Earth Circle Organics Coconut Cream Powder, Newchapter, BPI Sports Best Protein and 14 more
What the Science Says
Maltodextrin is a processed carbohydrate made from starch (usually corn, wheat, or potato). In supplements, it is almost universally used as a filler, binder, or placebo control — not as an active ingredient with a therapeutic purpose. The provided research papers use maltodextrin exclusively as a placebo comparator in clinical trials studying other ingredients, such as protein supplements, prebiotics, and laxatives.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to improve athletic performance on its own. Not a therapeutic ingredient — it's filler. No evidence it supports gut health, muscle growth, or any specific health outcome. Being listed on a label doesn't mean it's doing anything beneficial for you.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Maltodextrin is a processed carbohydrate made from starch (usually corn, wheat, or potato). In supplements, it is almost universally used as a filler, binder, or placebo control — not as an active ingredient with a therapeutic purpose. The provided research papers use maltodextrin exclusively as a placebo comparator in clinical trials studying other ingredients, such as protein supplements, prebiotics, and laxatives.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies — used as placebo/excipient in most trials
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Good — maltodextrin is rapidly digested and absorbed as glucose, causing a quick rise in blood sugar. This is why it is used as a neutral caloric carrier in research.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Frequently used as a 'placebo' in clinical trials, meaning it is considered inert — products marketing it as an active ingredient are misleading consumers
- Rapidly raises blood sugar (high glycemic index) — problematic for people with diabetes or insulin resistance
- Appears in over 1,000 registered supplement products (NIH DSLD), often as a filler or bulking agent with no disclosed therapeutic intent
- Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, especially in large amounts or with high-output stoma conditions
Products Containing Maltodextrin
See how Maltodextrin is used in these analyzed products:
Earth Circle Organics Coconut Cream Powder
Supplement
Newchapter
Supplement
BPI Sports Best Protein
Supplement
True Nutrition Flavor Packs (50g)
Supplement
Gaspari Nutrition MyoFusion
Supplement
Nutrilite Fiber Powder
Supplement
Solaray Bean Enzyme 30 GaIU
Supplement
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Rich Chocolate
Supplement
OMNi-BiOTiC Stress Release
Supplement
Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra
Supplement
BPI Sports CLA + Carnitine
Supplement
Gundry MD Bio Complete 3
Supplement
Qunol Focus Plus Brain Health
Supplement
1.M.R OG Pre-Workout Formula
Supplement
Renew Life 3-Day Cleanse
Supplement
Renew Life 3 Day Cleanse Total Body Reset
Supplement
SlimFast High Protein Shakes
Weight Loss
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: 2026-04-09