A new scientific study has found that sorbitol, a widely used low-calorie sweetener, may contribute to the risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
The findings challenge the long-held assumption that sugar alcohols pass through the body without significant metabolic effects.
Sorbitol widely used in “sugar-free” products
Sorbitol is commonly found in sugar-free candies, chewing gum, protein bars, and other low-sugar food products. It is also naturally present in certain fruits and vegetables, particularly stone fruits such as peaches, apricots, and plums.
Because it is low in calories and used as a sugar substitute, it is often considered a safer alternative to regular sugar in processed foods.
Link to fatty liver disease risk
MASLD is a common liver condition associated with obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Previous research has already identified fructose as a major contributor to fat accumulation in the liver.
The disease affects nearly 30 percent of adults worldwide, making it a growing global health concern.
What the study found
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis discovered that sorbitol can be metabolized differently depending on gut conditions.
According to the study, when gut bacteria capable of breaking down sorbitol are absent or weakened, sorbitol may be converted into fructose in the liver.
This conversion process could potentially increase the risk of fat buildup in the liver.
The findings suggest that the health of gut microbiota plays a crucial role in how the body processes sugar alcohols like sorbitol.
In simple terms, while sorbitol is often considered harmless, under certain biological conditions it may contribute to metabolic changes linked to fatty liver disease.
Published in a leading journal
The research has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Signaling, adding scientific weight to the findings.
The study raises important questions about the long-term safety of artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, especially in people with imbalanced gut bacteria. While it does not suggest immediate danger, it highlights the need for further research into how sugar substitutes affect liver health and metabolism.
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