Identification

• Sorbitol is a white, sweetish alcohol found in a variety of fruits and berries. Although a natural laxative, sorbitol does not have an insulin reaction and is used as a sugar substitute for diabetics.
  
  

Effects

• According to author and television show host Mehmet Oz, the body has trouble digesting food that has sorbitol. Sorbitol has side effects such as bloating, gas, irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea.
  
  

Expert Insight

• According to the January 2008 "BMJ-British Medical Journal," sorbitol was shown to cause severe weight loss from chronic diarrhea in two patients. They chewed gum and ate sweets in large amounts made with sorbitol. Both also had abdominal pain.
  
  

Treatment

• The treatment for chronic diarrhea and abdominal pains from consuming sugar-free products made with sorbitol is to stop and avoid all food with sorbitol. Normal bowel movements and intestinal functions will resume.
  
  

Warning

• Intravenous sorbitol infusions can be life threatening for patients with fructose intolerances. Consult with your doctor first before using sorbitol if you're pregnant.