ATLANTA (January 11, 2008) — The Calorie Control Council takes this opportunity to respond to points discussed in a paper, “Severe Weight Loss Caused by Chewing Gum,” recently published in the British Medical Journal. The authors note that the polyol or sugar alcohol, sorbitol, found in reduced-calorie products such as gums, candies, etc., may cause diarrhea. It is important for consumers and health professionals to understand the following regarding products that contain sorbitol or other polyols (reduced calorie sweeteners).
Polyols provide fewer calories per gram than does sugar, they do not promote tooth decay and they do not cause sudden increases in blood glucose levels. Because they taste good, people can improve the healthfulness of their diets without having to sacrifice the pleasure of eating sweet foods they enjoy. Sugar-free and reduced-calorie products, including sugar-free chewing gums, may assist consumers in maintaining good oral health, maintaining or reducing weight (since they have fewer calories than other carbohydrates, including sugar) and reducing glycemic load. For more information, visit www.polyol.org.