Ingredient Information
Summary
Maltodextrin is a white powder made from starches like corn, rice, or potato. It’s a carbohydrate often used in food and drinks to improve texture, thicken, or add sweetness without altering flavour. In sports nutrition, maltodextrin is valued for its ability to provide a quick energy source, making it popular among athletes and those engaging in intense physical activity. It can help replenish glycogen stores after exercise. People looking to gain weight or those with high energy needs may also benefit from its calorie content. However, it’s important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about its use.
Key Facts
- Type: Excipient
- Natural source: Starch from corn, rice, potato, or wheat
- Typical supplemental dose: Varies, often 5-10g per serving
- Used for: Energy, manufacturing
- First discovered/isolated: 1811
What Is Maltodextrin?
Maltodextrin, also known as polysaccharide or additive E1400, is a carbohydrate with the empirical formula (C6H10O5)n. It is classified as a complex carbohydrate and typically appears as a white, odourless powder. Maltodextrin is produced by hydrolysing starches from sources like corn, rice, or potatoes, using enzymes or acids. This process breaks down the starch into shorter glucose chains. Maltodextrin is easily digestible and rapidly absorbed, making it a common ingredient in sports drinks and processed foods to provide quick energy. It contributes to the texture and shelf life of products without significantly altering flavour.
How It Works In The Body
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate that the body quickly breaks down into glucose, providing a rapid source of energy. It’s absorbed rapidly in the small intestine, making it useful for quick energy replenishment, especially during or after exercise. While it contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, it’s important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Safety & Interactions
- Maltodextrin is generally recognised as safe when consumed in typical food amounts.
- Individuals with diabetes should monitor their intake, as maltodextrin can affect blood sugar levels.
- Those with corn allergies should avoid maltodextrin derived from corn.
- There is no specific UK upper intake level for maltodextrin, but it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhoea.rgies to stearic acid or magnesium should exercise caution.
Always consult your health practitioner before taking nutritional supplements, especially if you are taking medication or are under medical supervision. You should not take supplements as a substitute for a varied balanced diet or healthy lifestyle.
FAQs
What is maltodextrin used for?
Maltodextrin is commonly used as a food additive to improve texture, thicken products, or as a carbohydrate source in sports supplements.
Is maltodextrin safe to consume?
Yes, maltodextrin is generally recognised as safe for consumption in food and supplements when used within recommended amounts.
Does maltodextrin contribute to normal energy metabolism?
Maltodextrin provides carbohydrates, which contribute to the normal energy-yielding metabolism, supporting energy production in the body.
References
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25674937/
Nutrition, Health, and Regulatory Aspects of Digestible Maltodextrins.
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9835112/
Effects of maltodextrin on human physiology and gut microbiota, including changes in gut motility.
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39339678/
High-dose maltodextrin-fructose supplementation around intense endurance exercise may reduce post-run inflammation and support recovery.
Our products that contain Maltodextrin
Where next?
Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes or starting new supplements.