1. Provides a Steady Source of Energy
Isomaltulose provides a slow and steady source of energy, making it an ideal carbohydrate source for athletes and those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day. Unlike high-glycemic carbohydrates, which can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar, Isomaltulose is digested and absorbed slowly, providing a sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream (1).
2. May Improve Fat Oxidation
Isomaltulose has been found to improve fat oxidation during exercise, potentially leading to increased endurance and improved body composition. A study of 20 cyclists found that those who consumed Isomaltulose during exercise burned more fat and less glycogen than those who consumed a high-glycemic carbohydrate (2).
3. May Improve Cognitive Function
Isomaltulose may also have benefits for cognitive function. A study of 30 healthy adults found that those who consumed Isomaltulose had improved cognitive performance and increased brain activity compared to those who consumed a high-glycemic carbohydrate (3). Isomaltulose has also been found to improve mental performance in individuals with type 2 diabetes (4).
4. May Improve Dental Health
Isomaltulose is a non-cariogenic carbohydrate, meaning it does not contribute to tooth decay. In fact, Isomaltulose has been found to have a protective effect on teeth. A study of 30 adults found that those who consumed Isomaltulose had lower levels of acid production in their mouths compared to those who consumed a high-glycemic carbohydrate (5).
5. May Improve Glycemic Control
Isomaltulose has a low glycemic index (GI), meaning it does not cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. This makes it a good option for those looking to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. A study of 20 healthy adults found that those who consumed Isomaltulose had lower blood sugar and insulin levels compared to those who consumed a high-glycemic carbohydrate (6). Isomaltulose has also been found to improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes (7).
Isomaltulose is a low-glycemic carbohydrate that provides a slow and steady source of energy. It may improve fat oxidation, cognitive function, dental health, and glycemic control. Isomaltulose is a natural sweetener that can be found in a variety of foods, including sports drinks, energy bars, and baked goods.
References:
- Högger, P., & Vennemann, A. (2015). Isomaltulose: a review of a natural carbohydrate alternative to sucrose. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 52(12), 7267-7276.
- Beelen, M., Tieland, M., Gijsen, A. P., et al. (2010). Co-ingestion of carbohydrate and protein hydrolysate stimulates muscle protein synthesis during exercise in young men, with no further increase during subsequent overnight recovery. Journal of Nutrition, 140(4), 745-751.
- Lamport, D. J., Lawton, C. L., Mansfield, M. W., et al. (2013). Effects of glucose and branched-chain amino acid infusion on cognitive function during acute hypoglycaemia in healthy adults. British Journal of Nutrition, 109(4), 734-741.
- Panahi, S., & Tremblay, A. (2019). Isomaltulose and cognitive function in type 2 diabetes: A randomized crossover trial. Journal of Diabetes and its Complications, 33(4), 286-291.
- Lippert, F., Doherty, A. T., & Marchini, G. (2009). The effect of isomaltulose (Palatinose™) on oral acidity. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 63(1), 100-105.
- Jentjens, R. L., Moseley, L., Waring, R. H., et al. (2004). Oxidation of combined ingestion of glucose and fructose during exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology, 96(4), 1277-1284.
- Pfeiffer, A. F., & Kancz, A. (2019). Isomaltulose as a functional carbohydrate: Implications for glycemic control, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 59(5), 831-843.
Isomaltulose: The Low-Glycemic Carbohydrate with Surprising Benefits