The Hidden Dangers of Sugar Alcohols: What Big Food Won’t Tell You
When you pick up a protein bar or “healthy” snack, you expect it to fuel your body—not trick it. But many so-called health foods are loaded with sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners designed to mimic sugar’s sweetness without the calories. Sounds good, right? Not so fast.
At Muscle Up Bars, we believe in real ingredients—not chemical shortcuts. Let’s break down the hidden dangers of sugar alcohols and why we refuse to use them in our protein bars.
What Are Sugar Alcohols?
Sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, are low-calorie sweeteners found in many protein bars, snacks, and “sugar-free” products. Some of the most common ones include:
- Erythritol
- Maltitol
- Sorbitol
- Xylitol
- Mannitol
They’re used because they provide sweetness without spiking blood sugar as much as real sugar. But that doesn’t mean they’re good for you.
The Side Effects Big Companies Ignore
1️⃣ Digestive Distress 🤢
Sugar alcohols are not fully absorbed by your body. Instead, they ferment in the gut, leading to bloating, gas, cramping, and even diarrhea. If you've ever felt sick after eating a protein bar, sugar alcohols might be the culprit.
2️⃣ Blood Sugar Confusion 🔄
Many brands claim sugar alcohols are “low-carb” or “diabetes-friendly,” but some—like maltitol—can still raise blood sugar levels. For anyone trying to manage blood sugar, these hidden effects can be a problem.
3️⃣ Fake Sweetness, Real Cravings 🍬
Artificial sweeteners like sugar alcohols can trick your body into expecting sugar, leading to more cravings and overeating. Instead of satisfying your sweet tooth, they leave you wanting more.
4️⃣ Mystery Origins 🌍
Did you know many sugar alcohols are chemically processed from corn, often GMO corn? If a product doesn’t specify where its ingredients come from, you might be eating something highly processed without realizing it.
Muscle Up Bars: No Sugar Alcohols, Just Real Ingredients
We don’t cut corners. We never use sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners, or fillers. Instead, we sweeten our bars with natural ingredients like organic sweet potato and coconut nectar—real foods that provide lasting energy without the crash.
If you’re tired of being misled by fake “healthy” bars, it’s time to read the label and fuel your body with the real deal. 💪🇺🇸
Ready for a better protein bar?
Shop now and taste the difference!