Dextrose is a simpler form of sugar that your body doesn’t need to break down, while maltodextrin features a string of glucose molecules, which can be easily broken down, but not quite as quickly as dextrose.
FOOD CONTAINING MALTODEXTRIN
Foods that often contain maltodextrin include:
- Pasta
- Cooked cereals
- Rice
- Meat substitutes
- Baked goods
- Salad dressings
- Frozen meals
- Soups
- Sugars and sweets
- Energy and sports drinks
IS MALTODEXTRIN SAFE?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), maltodextrin is a GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) food additive. It’s also included in the nutritional value of food as part of the total carbohydrate count.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has defined maltodextrins as;
A “non-sweet nutritive saccharide polymer that consists of D-glucose units linked primarily by (alpha)-1,4 bonds and that has a dextrose equivalent (DE) of less than 20. It is prepared as a white powder or concentrated solution by partial hydrolysis of vegetable starch with safe and suitable enzymes.” (21 Code of Federal Regulations Sec. 184.1444.)
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, carbohydrates should make up 45–65 percent Source of your overall calories.
POSITIVES OF MALTODEXTRIN
- EFFECTIVE AND CHEAP FOOD PRODUCT
Maltodextrin is a cheap and effective food product that can improve the texture, taste, and shelf life of foods.
- POSITIVE EFFECT ON DIGESTION
A study in the European Journal of Nutrition found that maltodextrin had positive effects on overall digestion. It improved intestinal functions such as colonic transit time, stool volume, and stool consistency.
- MAINTENANCE OF NORMAL BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL
Some people with chronic hypoglycemia take maltodextrin as part of their regular treatment. Because maltodextrin causes a faster increase in blood sugar, it’s an effective treatment for those who struggle to maintain normal blood sugar levels. If their glucose level gets too low, they have a quick solution.
- STIMULATE MUSCLE PROTEIN SYNTHESIS
Maltodextrins play an important role in athletic performance and recovery. It has been shown by studies that a combination of maltodextrins with protein and/or amino acids can promote enhanced glycogen recovery following an intense exercise protocol.
- HELPS IN MUSCLE BUILDING
Because maltodextrin is a fast-digesting carbohydrate, it’s often included in sports drinks and snacks for athletes. For bodybuilders and other athletes trying to gain weight, maltodextrin can be a good source of quick calories during or after a workout.
Since maltodextrin doesn’t use as much water to digest as some carbohydrates, it’s a good way to get quick calories without becoming dehydrated. Some research also shows that maltodextrin supplements can help maintain anaerobic power during exercise.
- GOOD IN MUSCLE RECOVERY
It is beneficial to anyone taking on rigorous endurance or muscle-building exercise as it provides a quickly absorbed intake of carbs, which contribute to the recovery of your normal muscle function.
- COLORECTAL CANCER
There is some evidence that maltodextrin’s fermentation in the intestines could act as an agent that helps prevent colorectal cancer.
A recent study found that Fibersol-2, a form of digestive-resistant maltodextrin, had antitumor activity. It prevented tumor growth without any apparent toxic side effects.
SUMMARY
People use maltodextrin as an artificial food additive or a carbohydrate supplement to boost energy levels and performance. Maltodextrin adds valuable carbohydrates and energy to your diet. It has many functional properties which add to its value.
