Sorbitol (E420) in toothpaste: harm and benefit, formula, use during pregnancy, contraindications

Sorbitol has a slight sweetening effect and some additional properties. It is used in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries, laxatives.

Added to toothpastes because of its sweet taste, it avoids the use of sugar, which is prevention of caries development. These effects give the texture a pleasant taste.

What is sorbitol and where is it used

A crystalline, odorless, white chemical substance that is used as an artificial sweetener in cakes and candies, food and industrial products.

The photo on the right shows the structural formula of the sorbitol molecule.

Sorbitol is characterized as a hexahydric alcohol with a sweet taste.

It is obtained through the hydrogenation reaction of glucose or from the fruits of stone fruits and rowan berries.

Sorbitol is produced naturally by our body, but it is poorly absorbed.

In addition to the sweetening effect, sorbitol has a mild choleretic, detoxifying effect. Almost not absorbed in the intestine due to the fact that pressure is formed in the lumen of the intestine, leading to increased peristalsis. In case of an overdose, a laxative effect is observed.

Sorbitol is an E420 food supplement. Fully soluble in water and ethanol, with the exception of some oils.

Retaining moisture, does not allow the finished product to dry out. Therefore, sorbitol is also called a humectant.

It is for this reason that it is used in cosmetology:

• in cosmetic masks for face and hair;
• dental pastes;
• shampoos;
• medicines;
• vitamins;
• deodorants:
• in the creation of ascorbic acid;
• after shave lotions.

Almost always present:

• in carbonated drinks;
• as a thickener in cosmetics;
• chewing gum;
• in some dietary products;
• mouthwashes.

Additionally added to some candies.

Why is it added to toothpastes, the benefits of sorbitol

Sometimes the sealing of the tube with toothpaste is broken, but do not worry if the composition contains sorbitol, because it is he who does not allow it to run out of steam. In addition, it plays the role of a sweetener, which is especially important for delicate and sensitive natures.

Sorbitol is used in the production of pasta, and this helps to avoid adding sugar to it, which prevents the development of tooth decay. The texture of the composition becomes better, and the taste is more pleasant.

In addition, sorbitol dissolves well in water, and its sweetness is two times lower than that of glucose and xylitol. It is usually derived from certain fruits: apples, pears, apricots, grapes, hawthorn. And its anti-caries effect is associated with a decrease in the production of organic acids in enamels.

Is there any harm, is it possible during pregnancy

Sorbitol in pastes is not dangerous, unless you swallow them in large quantities.

It is with internal use in considerable quantities that sorbitol due to the laxative enzyme, absorbed into the intestines, causes diarrhea, problems with stool. Especially not safe if used instead of a drug. Sorbitol can cause flatulence, bloating, and worsening irritable bowel syndrome. As well as side effects in the form of: edema, weakness, nausea, vomiting, thirst, dry mouth, chills, back pain, rhinitis, tachycardia and urinary retention.

The doses that enter the body in case of accidental swallowing of the composition in an adult are scanty, therefore, they cannot cause problems with stool, but this can affect the body of children unexpectedly way.

Since children often swallow a lot of toothpaste, it is best to buy products without sorbitol.

It is not advisable to use dental preparations with sorbitol for people with irritable bowel syndrome.

Pregnancy is not a contraindication to the use of toothpastes with sorbitol, but it is better to refuse from the internal intake of products with these elements.

To understand if Sorbitol is in the composition, it is worth examining the composition and importance of the components of the remedy for the teeth.

Sorbitol-free dental products

There are several dentifrices that do not contain this substance.

Jason Natural Sea Fresh

Stevia extract acts as a sweetener.

This remedy strengthens teeth free of harsh abrasives and irritating components. It is made on the basis of herbal natural ingredients, for example:

• extracts of mint and parsley to refresh the oral cavity;
• seaweed that is rich calcium, proteins and antioxidants, to strengthen teeth and gums;
• aloe vera gel is added to soothe irritated gums.

Splat Special Organic

Means Splat Special Organic is specially made for sensitive enamel of the teeth, acts as a strengthening. The composition includes:

• aloe vera extract reducing inflammation and healing wounds;
• calcium lactate - to improve the properties of tooth enamel;
• tea tree extract - has antimicrobial properties, has a beneficial effect on the gums and prevents rapid formation on the teeth plaque, splits it.

Green People Natural Organic Children Mandarin & Aloe Vera Toothpaste

Means for kids. No sweeteners, 100% organic.

Weleda salt toothpaste

There are no sweeteners in the composition, it has a salty taste.

Due to the soft abrasive particles, it successfully fights plaque and prevents the formation of dental calculus. Supports gum health with antibacterial extracts and pleasantly refreshes. Not included fluorine, Surfactants and other harmful components.