Sweetener Sorbitol Linked to Liver Disease Risk

A recent scientific investigation indicates a potential link between consuming sorbitol, a widely used sugar substitute, and an increased risk of fatty liver disease. This condition, which causes harmful fat to build up in the liver, affects a substantial number of people. The research highlights how sorbitol, when not broken down by beneficial gut bacteria, can be converted into fat within the liver, exacerbating the disease.

The study, conducted on zebrafish, revealed that sorbitol is naturally produced in the gut when glucose levels are high. However, if the bacteria responsible for its degradation are depleted—often a side effect of certain medications—the sorbitol can travel to the liver. There, it is transformed into fructose and subsequently into fat, accelerating the progression of fatty liver disease.

While the findings require human trials for confirmation, they serve as a significant warning about the potential dangers of excessive dietary sorbitol intake. The research emphasizes the crucial role of gut microbiome health in preventing liver damage, suggesting that maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria is vital for mitigating risks associated with certain sweeteners.