If you often read food labels, maltodextrin You must have encountered the component. It is a very common additive. Studies have detected this substance in the content of about 60% of packaged foods.
This additive is made from starch. It is a filler. It is used as a thickener or preservative to extend the shelf life of foods.
Although considered safe by some food regulatory agencies, maltodextrin It is a controversial additive.
What is maltodextrin?
It is an artificial carbonate made with starch. In some countries it is made from corn or potato starch. Some use rice or wheat starch. This is often controversial, as 90% of the corn consumed is genetically modified.
Starch undergoes a process called partial hydrolysis, in which water and enzymes are added to partially digest the starch. It is then refined. It is dried to produce a fine white powder with a neutral or slightly sweet taste.
maltodextrinIt is used as a food additive in many processed products to fluff foods, improve texture and extend shelf life. Some products containing this additive are:
Because it is a versatile and inexpensive additive, it is more attractive for manufacturers to use. maltodextrin Areas of use include:
Used as a filler: It is added to foods as an ingredient without affecting its taste.
Used as a thickener: Low-fat yoghurt, instant pudding, sauces, salad dressing andjelly It preserves the thickening property of starch in products such as
Used as a binder: It is often used to form medicines in tablet and pill form.
Used as a preservative: It is used especially in many baby foods to extend the shelf life. It dissolves easily without forming lumps.
Used to create a smooth texture: It is found in many lotions and creams.
What are the benefits of maltodextrin?
maltodextrinIt is a common source of carbohydrates in sports drinks. Because it is easily digested and absorbed in the body.
During exercise, the body breaks down its stored energy reserves into a usable form called glucose.
During intense training, athletes' glycogen stores can be depleted. Therefore, supplements replenish these stores and help the athlete train longer.
Studies show that during or after exercise maltodextrin Studies show that taking a carbohydrate supplement like
Is maltodextrin harmful?
It has no nutritional value
Although this additive is used in athletes, it is a poor source of nutrients. a teaspoon maltodextrin It is similar to sugar and contains 12 calories, 3.8 grams of carbohydrates. It provides almost no vitamins or minerals.
Athletes can see the impact on performance, and increased endurance outweighs the poor nutrient content for them. But it provides no benefit for the average person.
Glycemic indexA measure of how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels.
Foods with a low GI score below 55, medium GI foods between 51 and 69, and foods with a high GI score above 70.
Since foods with high glycemic index contain sugars that are easily absorbed by the intestine, they rapidly increase blood sugar. maltodextrinBecause it is highly processed and easily digestible, it has an exceptionally high glycemic index in the range of 85 to 135.
Frequent consumption of high glycemic index foods can cause many diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
It can negatively affect gut health
Did you know that there are over 100 trillion beneficial bacteria in our lower intestine?Intestinal microbiota Also known as these microscopic creatures, they are incredibly important to our health.
Nutrition has a huge impact on the gut microbiota, as some foods encourage the growth of good bacteria while others inhibit their growth.
Many studies on animals and humans with digestive diseases, maltodextrinHe discovered that a diet rich in gut can alter the composition of gut bacteria and make the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Some people may experience side effects after use
maltodextrin Some people have reported experiencing some side effects after using it. These negative effects are:
Nausea
Swelling
Diarrhea
Mumps
Itching
Asthma
Most reported side effects are conditions such as carbohydrate intolerance or absorption problems. Therefore, if you have any of these, do not consume this additive.
It is an additive considered safe for most people. Foods containing maltodextrin If you experience any allergic reaction or side effects after eating or taking supplements, discontinue consumption immediately.
