Sorbitol sugar substitute linked to fructose metabolic pathways

New research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that sorbitol, a common sugar alcohol used in sugar-free gums, candies, and protein bars, may have complex metabolic effects. A study published in Science Signaling indicates that sorbitol can follow metabolic pathways that connect it to fructose.

Because sorbitol is chemically similar to fructose, the body can convert it into a fructose-related compound through a simple metabolic step. This is significant because high fructose intake is linked to liver fat buildup and steatotic liver disease. Using zebrafish for experimentation, researchers found that the intestine can also produce sorbitol from glucose following a carbohydrate-heavy meal.