Isomaltulose
Isomaltulose - the gentle sugar alternative for consistent energy
Isomaltulose is a natural disaccharide, which differs structurally from conventional household sugar. Although both consist of glucose and fructose, in isomaltulose these are linked together in a special way - which has an influence on their utilization in the body.
Due to this different chemical structure, isomaltulose is digested more slowly than sucrose. The sugar building blocks glucose and fructose are thus released evenly and utilized over a longer period of time. This makes isomaltulose an interesting option for anyone who wants to balance their energy intake.
Naturally obtained from beet sugar
Isomaltulose occurs in small quantities in nature, for example in honey and sugar cane. For use in food, it is produced from beet sugar using a natural fermentation process.
Gentle on teeth and mild
Isomaltulose is considered tooth-friendly* as it is not broken down by the bacteria in the mouth into acids that are harmful to teeth. This makes it very different from other types of sugar, which often contribute to tooth decay.
Little effect on the blood sugar level
With a glycemic index of 32, isomaltulose is a type of sugar with a low blood sugar effect. Compared to dextrose (glucose: GI = 100), it only leads to a slow and moderate rise in blood sugar levels*.
Ideal for uniform energy supply
The slow availability of the sugar building blocks makes isomaltulose a suitable source of energy for everyday life, work and sporting activities. The steady release allows the body to draw on the energy supplied over a longer period of time.
Calorie content and taste
Like other sugars, isomaltulose provides around 4 kcal per gram. Its sweetening power is around 40 % compared to conventional household sugar. The taste is pure, pleasantly mild and without an unpleasant aftertaste - ideal for drinks, desserts or muesli.
Well tolerated with intolerances
Isomaltulose is free from gluten and lactose and is therefore suitable for people with coeliac disease or lactose intolerance. People with fructose intolerance should test their tolerance individually, as isomaltulose releases fructose - but at a slow rate and in combination with glucose, which can facilitate absorption in the small intestine.
No laxative effect with normal consumption
Unlike some sugar alcohols, isomaltulose is completely absorbed in the small intestine and does not have a laxative effect in normal quantities. However, as with all types of sugar, excessive intake should be avoided.
Conclusion: Balanced sweetness with added value
Isomaltulose is a gentle, evenly digestible type of sugar with a mild taste. Thanks to its special structure, it is digested slowly, has only a moderate effect on blood sugar levels* and is gentle on the teeth*. Ideal for anyone who wants to sweeten consciously - whether in everyday life, during sport or in a conscious diet.
Sources
- Atkinson, Fiona S.; Foster-Powell, Kaye; Brand-Miller, Jennie C. (2008): International tables of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2008. Diabetes Care 31 (12): 2281-2283.
[Link to the abstract] - van Can, Judith G P et al. (2009): Reduced glycaemic and insulinaemic responses following isomaltulose ingestion: implications for postprandial substrate use. Br J Nutr 102 (10): 1408-1413.
[Link to the abstract] - West, Daniel J. et al. (2011): Isomaltulose Improves Postexercise Glycemia by Reducing CHO Oxidation in T1DM. Med Sci Sports Exerc 43 (2): 204-210.
[Link to the abstract] - * The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirms that the consumption of foods/drinks that contain other sugars such as isomaltulose instead of sugar:
* cause the blood sugar level to rise less after their consumption than when consuming sugary foods/drinks, and contribute to tooth mineralization.