Sorbitol-Containing Gum and Weight-Loss Concerns

An article published in the British Medical Journal about two people that mysteriously lost weight after consuming large amounts of sugar-free gum containing sorbitol has spurred a dangerous diet craze.

A 21-year-old woman lost more than 24 pounds over an eight-month period, and a 46-year-old man lost 48 pounds in a year. Both patients underwent several tests to determine the cause of their unexplained weight loss. Both experienced diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain. After the tests failed to uncover the weight loss, the patients were asked about their dietary habits. Both consumed large amounts of sorbitol-containing gum daily. The woman chewed more than a dozen sticks per day, while the man chewed 20 sticks per day (1).

The researchers stated, “Our cases show that sorbitol consumption can cause not only chronic diarrhea and functional bowel problems, but also considerable unintended weight loss” (1).

Sorbitol occurs naturally in fruits and berries and is closely related to sugar, although it is about half as sweet. It has no known hazards at moderate levels.

News of this study has been popping up on several pro-anorexia websites. Both positive and negative comments have been made about using sorbitol for weight loss. The concern is that people desperate to lose weight will consume large amounts of sorbitol-containing products to lose weight even with the undesirable and potentially dangerous side effects.

Reference

1. Juergen, B. et al. (January, 2008). Severe weight loss caused by chewing gum. British Journal of Medicine, 336, 96-97.