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Maltodextrin and gluten
If you’re on a gluten-free diet, you may be concerned about maltodextrin because it has “malt” in the name. Malt is made from barley, so it contains gluten. However, maltodextrin is gluten-free, even when it’s made from wheat. According to the advocacy group Beyond Celiac, the processing that wheat starches undergo in the creation of maltodextrin renders it gluten-free. So if you have celiac disease or if you’re on a gluten-free diet, you can still consume maltodextrin.Maltodextrin and weight loss
If you’re trying to lose weight, you will want to avoid maltodextrin. It’s essentially a sweetener and a carbohydrate with no nutritional value, and it causes an increase in blood sugar. The levels of sugar in maltodextrin can lead to weight gain.Maltodextrin and genetically modified foods
Finally, because it’s often used as a cheap thickener or filler, maltodextrin is usually manufactured from genetically modified (GMO) corn. According to theExercise
Because maltodextrin is a fast-digesting carbohydrate, it’s often included in sports drinks and snacks for athletes. For bodybuilders and other athletes trying to gain weight, maltodextrin can be a good source of quick calories during or after a workout. Since maltodextrin doesn’t use as much water to digest as some carbohydrates, it’s a good way to get quick calories without becoming dehydrated. Some research also shows that maltodextrin supplements can help maintain anaerobic power during exercise.Chronic hypoglycemia
Some people with chronic hypoglycemia take maltodextrin as part of their regular treatment. Because maltodextrin causes a faster increase in blood sugar, it’s an effective treatment for those who struggle to maintain normal blood sugar levels. If their glucose level gets too low, they have a quick solution.Colorectal cancer
There is some evidence that maltodextrin’s fermentation in the intestines could act as an agent that helps prevent colorectal cancer. A recent study found that Fibersol-2, a form of digestive-resistant maltodextrin, had antitumor activity. It prevented tumor growth without any apparent toxic side effects.Digestion
A study in the European Journal of Nutrition found that digestion-resistant maltodextrin had positive effects on overall digestion. It improved intestinal functions such as colonic transit time, stool volume, and stool consistency.- white or brown sugar
- coconut sugar
- agave
- honey
- maple syrup
- fruit juice concentrates
- molasses
- corn syrup
- sugar alcohols like erythritol or sorbitol
- stevia-based sweeteners
- polydextrose