Lactitol monohydrate ≥98% purity is a sugar alcohol derived from lactose that serves as a low-calorie sweetener and proven laxative for constipation relief.

Lactitol monohydrate ≥98% purity is a sugar alcohol (polyol) derived from lactose through catalytic hydrogenation. This white crystalline powder serves as a low-calorie sweetener (2.0-2.4 kcal/g vs 4 kcal/g for sugar) with proven therapeutic benefits for digestive health.

*EU supplement claim requires 10 g lactitol once daily for bowel function benefit. Medical use (Pizensy®) typically 20 g daily.

Mechanistic highlights

1. Osmotic action: Lactitol is poorly absorbed in the small intestine, creating an osmotic effect that draws water into the bowel lumen, softening stool and promoting regular bowel movements.
2. Colonic fermentation: Gut bacteria ferment unabsorbed lactitol into short-chain fatty acids, lowering colonic pH and stimulating peristalsis while supporting beneficial microbiota.
3. Minimal systemic absorption: Only 0.5-2% of oral lactitol is absorbed unchanged, resulting in negligible impact on blood glucose and insulin levels (ideal for diabetics).
4. Non-cariogenic properties: Oral bacteria cannot effectively metabolize lactitol into cavity-causing acids, making it safe for dental health.

Safety & practical use

• Usual supplemental range: 10-20 g once daily for constipation relief; adjust based on stool consistency
• Upper-dose tolerance: Doses >20-30 g may cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea; products with >10% polyols require laxative effect warning in EU
• Drug interactions: Separate from oral medications by ≥2 hours to avoid absorption interference
• FODMAP consideration: Lactitol is a high-FODMAP polyol; may trigger IBS symptoms in sensitive individuals
• Contraindications: Avoid in galactosemia, GI obstruction; safety in pregnancy not established
• Sweetness profile: Approximately 35-40% as sweet as sucrose; heat-stable for cooking/baking
• Storage: Store in cool, dry place; hygroscopic nature requires moisture-proof packaging