Definition & Meaning of "sugar alcohol"in English

What is "sugar alcohol"?

Sugar alcohols are a type of sweetener commonly used in sugar-free and reduced-calorie foods and beverages. They occur naturally in small amounts in fruits and vegetables, but they are also commercially produced from sugars and starches through a process called hydrogenation. Examples of sugar alcohols include sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol, and mannitol. Sugar alcohols provide sweetness with fewer calories than sugar, and they have minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making them popular among people with diabetes or those following a low-carb diet. However, sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals when consumed in large amounts, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.