Researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that sorbitol, a specific ingredient found in dietary sugar, gum, soda and some fruits, may cause bloating. results published at UC Davis.
Sorbitol is an alcohol that has a sweet taste, is slowly absorbed by the body, and can cause bloating and diarrhea when consumed in large amounts. It is considered a natural sugar substitute derived from starchy fruits such as apples and apricots. Sorbitol is also used in the production of diet desserts and soda.
Scientists said that if sorbitol cannot be broken down naturally during digestion, it passes through the small intestine and undergoes fermentation in the colon, a process where bacteria break down carbohydrates into fatty acids and gas. Therefore, bloating may occur when consuming sorbitol.
Researchers also sought to learn how to restore the intestines’ ability to break down sorbitol. To do this, they conducted an experiment involving laboratory mice. Initial tests showed that feeding mice foods high in saturated fat reduced the amount of oxygen used by the cells lining the intestines. This helped reduce the number of clostridia, gut microbes that break down sorbitol.
Later experiments showed that exposure to butyrate, a fatty acid produced by consuming high-fiber foods, may protect against bloating and diarrhea. These include whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice), legumes (beans, lentils and chickpeas), fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds.
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