Uses
What is polydextrose used for?
Polydextrose is made up of sugars linked in chains. People use these sugar chains in food and as medicine.
Polydextrose is taken by mouth for:
- Scaly, itchy skin (eczema)
- Diabetes
- Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes)
- Infant development
- As a prebiotic
In foods, polydextrose is used as a sweetener and to improve the texture of foods.
How does it work?
There are not enough studies about how polydextrose works. Please discuss with your doctor for more information. However, it is known that polydextrose passes undigested into the colon where it can increase bowel mass and possibly promote growth of certain bacteria that are thought to be beneficial.
Precautions & warnings
What should I know before using polydextrose?
Consult with your doctor or pharmacist or herbalist, if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
- You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription.
- You have allergy with any substances of polydextrose or other medications or other herbs.
- You have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.
- You have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
The regulations for a supplement are less strict than the regulations for a drug. More studies are needed to determine its safety. The benefits of taking this supplement must outweigh the risks before use. Consult with your doctor for more information.
How safe is polydextrose?
Polydextrose is likely safe when used as a food additive, provided a serving contains less than 15 grams of polydextrose.
Polydextrose is possibly safe when taken by mouth in doses of less than 50 grams per day.
Polydextrose is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in single doses of more than 50 grams or in daily doses of more than 90 grams. High doses of polydextrose might cause severe diarrhea.
Special precautions & warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking polydextrose if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid using in amounts greater than what is normally found in food.
Children: Polydextrose is possibly safe for infants when added to formula at concentrations of approximately 2-4 grams/L.
Side effects
What kind of side effects may I have from polydextrose?
Polydextrose can cause intestinal gas (flatulence), bloating, stomachcramps, and diarrhea.
Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about side effects, please consult your doctor.
Interactions
What interactions may I have with polydextrose?
Polydextrose may interact with your current medications or medical conditions. Consult with your doctor before using.
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor before using this medication.
What is the usual dose for polydextrose?
The dose for polydextrose may be different for every patient. The dose that you take depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Supplements are not always safe. Please discuss with your doctor for your appropriate dosage.
What form does polydextrose come in?
Polydextrose may be available in the following dosage forms:
- Dietary sugar powder
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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