Malodextrin: Good, Bad or Neutral?

moonbaby12

Opinions or thoughts on malodextrin anyone? I just learned that the protein powder I've been using contains malodextrin but I have heard it is just as bad as sugar in terms of glycemic response--and that it may or may not cinatin gluten.

Anyone know if this is true?

Hendrix7

Although technically a complex carb yes maltodrexin is digested extremely quickly, quicker than dextrose if I remember correctly.

However unless you have any particular hearth reason to be concerned about the couple of grams of malto in your shake really aren't going to make any difference.

It's gluten free AFAIK, regardless of what it is made from, as the processing removes all the gluten.

chels0722

Yes it can contain gluten. It is generally made from corn, rice, or potato starch, but sometimes you will find it made with wheat or barley.

I'm not sure about its impact on GI, but it is sometimes used to assist in aritificial sweetening.

Although it doesn't come from chemicals, like a lot of processed foods, it is still about as healthy for you as any other processed food.

cidalia73

It can contain gluten... Thing is, maltodextrin can be derived from any starch like rice, corn, or wheat and barley. To be gluten-free, it would have to be labelled as such.

Not sure about the whole glycemic thing though...there seem to be varying opinions, which is weird, but the general consensus is that it can cause a spike in blood sugar since it is a starch.

In moderation, I'd say it's neutral. But if you're gluten-intolerant, read the label.

moonbaby12

Thanks everyone....so many smart people here on mfp. ;D I find the glycemic response difficult to understand in general! I am thinking of trying a different and more "pure" protein powder and seeing if I don't feel so tired and hungry by 10 am....

Thanks all!!!