People all across the world make use of maltodextrin for a variety of reasons, yet there are certain risks involved in its usage.
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What is Maltodextrin?
Maltodextrin happens to be an artificial sugar that is often made use of as an additive or thickening agent in several types of foods. When it is isolated from starchy foods (such as corn or wheat) through an enzymatic process, the resulting white powder can rather be made use of in numerous ways. Since some of the maltodextrins are rather derived from wheat (primarily in Europe), this additive is not technically gluten-free, but most of the nutritionists do agree that side effects are highly unlikely, since the amount of residual gluten would be extremely minimal.
Maltodextrin is safe to eat and is commonly found in many foods, such as the following:
• Puddings
• Salad dressings
• Sauces
• Spice mix
• Baked goods
• Yogurt
• Nutrition bars
In terms of nutrition, maltodextrin has approximately 4 calories per gram, so it should be consumed in moderation. Furthermore, there are two different types, one that can be absorbed as well as metabolized by the body, and another that is resistant to digestion.
Both of these forms are recommended for health purposes, as they can achieve different effects within one’s body. Generally speaking, there is no danger of consuming this additive in one’s food, and it can also help to aid digestion and also control one’s blood sugar.
Side Effects of Maltodextrin
Unfortunately, there are quite a few side effects while making use of these supplements, such as high blood sugar, allergic reactions, and gastrointestinal reactions, among others. One needs to consult the doctor, particularly in case one is pregnant or has diabetes, or suffer from gastrointestinal disorders.
1. Probiotics
These supplements can indeed suppress the growth of good bacteria in the gut, while also promoting unhealthy bacteria and pathogens at the same time.
2. Blood Sugar
As a polysaccharide, the usage of maltodextrin can also cause a spike in one’s blood sugar. For people with diabetes or who are at risk of developing this condition, this could be very dangerous.
3. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to this supplement have been noticed and they can range from topical rashes as well as inflammation to gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting as well as diarrhea. This substance is often derived from wheat, and while most maltodextrin is indeed considered gluten-free, there can still be negative effects.
Maltodextrin is a starch-derived food additive that is used to add bulk and sweetness to packaged foods. Though maltodextrin is usually safe for those with gluten sensitivity, its high-level GI is can cause unexplained weight gain as well as instant blood sugar swings. If taken regularly it can even lead to the onset of chronic inflammatory diseases as well as digestive disorders.
4. Maltodextrin Substitutes
On account of the risks involved in the usage of Maltodextrin, many of the people seek out healthier, alternative or substitute sweeteners as well as additives.
Maltodextrin as a food additive is made use of in a number of processed foods that include sauces, cereals, and packaged snacks. It is made from potatoes, rice, corn or wheat.
5. Blood Sugar Spike and Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Eating foods that have a high glycemic index (GI) can indeed cause one’s blood sugar levels to spike suddenly and drop just as quickly. Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index. Consuming such high GI foods can cause heart disease, weight gain, and Type 2 diabetes.2
6. False Blood Glucose Reading
Maltodextrin can also rather cause a “falsely elevated glucose level” reading on a portable glucometer. When one’s blood sugar dips very low, at the very least, it can cause an irregular heartbeat, weakness, and an inability to concentrate. One can also even experience convulsions or seizures and become unconscious. The first signs of hypoglycemia include blurred vision, dizziness, headache, or feeling unusually sweaty or jittery. One must get medical help before this condition does more severe.
7. Stomach Irritation Due To Imbalance in Gut Bacteria
Maltodextrin can also irritate the stomach, especially for anyone who is prone to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. It is also believed to increase the levels of bacterial adhesion and could also raise one’s risk of developing conditions such as Crohn’s disease. One needs to avoid avoiding food that contains maltodextrin if one suffers from or are at risk of having digestive disorders or autoimmune problems.
8. Chronic Inflammatory Diseases Due To Compromised Immunity
The modern American diet does consist of a lot of packaged as well as processed foods that do often contain food additives such as Maltodextrin. Inflammation can trigger other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, hay fever, and even atherosclerosis.