Sorbitol is one of a range of naturally occurring carbohydrates known as sugar alcohols. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, they have a similar chemical structure to both sugars and alcohols, although they are actually neither substance.
Calories in Sorbitol
Sorbitol contains 2.6 calories per gram. Sorbitol has a small effect on blood glucose levels, but this effect is negligible at quantities lower than 5 g, since it is absorbed slowly by your bloodstream.
Comparison with Sugar
Sugar contains 4 calories per gram. Although sorbitol contains fewer calories than sugar by weight, some people find it less sweet. This may lead to consuming more sorbitol than sugar, canceling the calorie saving.
Comparison with Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, also known as non-nutritive sweeteners, contain saccharin or aspartame. These products are manufactured to provide sweetness alone. Sorbitol contains more calories than artificial sweeteners, since they contain no calories at all.
