The Role of Erythritol and Xylitol in Stimulating GLP-1 Gastrointestinal Hormones: Implications for Appetite Regulation
by Thom King, Icon Foods, Chief Innovations Officer/Food Scientist
Erythritol and xylitol are sugar alcohols (polyols) widely used as low-calorie sweeteners. Recent studies suggest that these compounds may influence the secretion of various gastrointestinal hormones, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), cholecystokinin (CCK), and peptide YY (PYY), while simultaneously reducing ghrelin levels 1. This paper attempts to explain, from a food science perspective, the mechanisms by which erythritol and xylitol affect these hormones and discusses their potential implications for appetite regulation and metabolic health.
Erythritol and xylitol are non-nutritive sweeteners that have gained popularity due to their low caloric content and minimal impact on blood glucose levels. As dietary components, these polyols may play a significant role in modulating gut hormone secretion, which is crucial for appetite control and energy homeostasis. Understanding how these sweeteners affect GLP-1, CCK, PYY, and ghrelin secretion can provide insights into their potential benefits for weight management and metabolic health 2.
Mechanisms of Action
Erythritol
- GLP-1 Secretion: Erythritol has been shown to stimulate GLP-1 secretion from the L-cells in the intestinal mucosa. GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that enhances insulin secretion in response to meals and promotes satiety.
- CCK and PYY Secretion: Erythritol may also enhance the release of CCK and PYY, both of which are involved in signaling satiety to the brain. CCK is released in response to the presence of fats and proteins in the intestine, while PYY is released postprandially, correlating with food intake.
- Ghrelin Suppression: Consumption of erythritol may lead to a decrease in ghrelin levels, the hormone primarily responsible for stimulating appetite. Lower ghrelin levels can enhance feelings of fullness and reduce food intake.
Xylitol
- GLP-1 and CCK Activation: Similar to erythritol, xylitol has been found to stimulate GLP-1 and CCK secretion, contributing to enhanced satiety and insulinotropic effects.
- PYY Release: Xylitol may also increase PYY secretion, further supporting appetite regulation and energy balance.
- Ghrelin Reduction: Research indicates that xylitol consumption can lead to a decrease in ghrelin levels, thereby reducing hunger signals.
Comparative Analysis
While both erythritol and xylitol exhibit similar effects on gut hormones, differences in their metabolic pathways may influence their efficacy. Erythritol is absorbed more rapidly and has a lower caloric value compared to xylitol, which may contribute to its more pronounced effects on GLP-1 and ghrelin levels. Understanding these differences can help in recommending appropriate sweeteners based on individual dietary needs and metabolic responses.
Clinical Implications
The modulation of gut hormones by erythritol and xylitol presents a promising avenue for reducing added sugar in food formulation which can be a significant component in dietary strategies aimed at blood sugar and weight management. Their ability to promote satiety while minimizing caloric intake could be beneficial for individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic syndrome. Further research is needed to establish long-term effects and determine optimal intake levels for maximum benefit. But, both erythritol and xylitol have been FDA GRAS, used safely for decades as a sweetener, and is approved for that use in over sixty countries.
Erythritol and xylitol play significant roles in the secretion of GLP-1, CCK, and PYY, while also reducing ghrelin levels. Their impact on these hormones underscores their potential as functional sweeteners that can aid in appetite regulation and metabolic health.
Detailed Mechanisms of Hormonal Regulation
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1)
- Function: GLP-1 is secreted in response to food intake, particularly carbohydrates and fats. It enhances insulin secretion from the pancreas, inhibits glucagon release, and promotes satiety.
- Erythritol and Xylitol Effects: Both erythritol and xylitol can stimulate GLP-1 release from intestinal L-cells. This stimulation may occur through the activation of specific nutrient sensing mechanisms in the gut, which respond to the presence of these sweeteners as if they were foods.
Cholecystokinin (CCK)
- Function: CCK is released by the small intestine in response to the ingestion of fatty acids and amino acids. It promotes bile secretion and stimulates pancreatic enzyme release, aiding in digestion, while also signaling satiety to the brain.
- Impact of Polyols: Erythritol and xylitol can enhance CCK release, which can lead to an earlier onset of satiety feelings, potentially reducing overall food intake during meals.
Peptide YY (PYY)
- Function: PYY is released postprandially from L-cells in the intestine and acts to reduce appetite. It is particularly effective in signaling fullness after meals.
- Influence of Erythritol and Xylitol: The consumption of these sugar alcohols has been associated with increased PYY levels, further contributing to their appetite-suppressing effects.
Ghrelin
- Function: Ghrelin, often referred to as the “hunger hormone,” is produced by the stomach and stimulates appetite. Its levels typically rise during fasting and fall after eating.
- Polyol Impact: Research indicates that allulose, erythritol and xylitol can lead to reduced ghrelin secretion. This suppression may help mitigate hunger pangs, facilitating better appetite control.
Implications for Weight Management
The combined effects of these hormones influenced by erythritol, and xylitol suggest a potential pathway for weight management strategies. By enhancing satiety through increased endogenous GLP-1, CCK, and PYY while reducing ghrelin levels, these polyols may help consumers limit caloric intake and manage their weight more effective 3.
While research is promising, there exists a need for additional clinical studies that address:
Long-term Effects: Understanding how chronic consumption of polyols influences hormone levels and body weight over extended periods. Studies have identified erythrose as a metabolite that protected against abdominal aortic calcification (AAC). Erythrose is an endogenous metabolite formed by glucose in the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). It also acts as a precursor for erythritol, a known biomarker or signaler for type 2 diabetes, central obesity, and cardiovascular disease. 4
Individual Variability: Factors such as genetics, gut microbiota composition, and metabolic health can influence the effectiveness of erythritol and xylitol on hormone secretion.
Comparative Efficacy: Comparing these sugar alcohols with other sweeteners and dietary approaches to determine their relative benefits and synergies.
Formulating Guidelines: Establishing guidelines for the optimal intake of these sweeteners can help maximize their benefits while ensuring safety. The FDA gave no objection to GRAS application GRN No. 789 5 which list usage guidelines and toxicology reports. https://www.fda.gov/media/132946/download
Documented Health Benefits of Erythritol and Xylitol
Low Caloric Content:
Erythritol: Contains about 0.2 calories per gram, making it nearly calorie-free. This property makes it particularly attractive for calorie-conscious individuals.
Xylitol: Contains about 2.4 calories per gram, which is lower than regular sugar (4 calories per gram), but higher than erythritol.
Glycemic Control:
Both polyols have minimal effects on blood glucose and insulin levels, making them suitable for people with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Dental Health:
Xylitol: Has been shown to be beneficial for dental health. It can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria primarily responsible for tooth decay, and may help reduce cavity formation. Regular xylitol consumption can promote remineralization of enamel.
Erythritol: Also has similar properties, reducing the risk of dental caries and promoting oral health.
Antioxidant Properties:
Some studies suggest that erythritol may have antioxidant properties, potentially helping to reduce oxidative stress in the body.6
Erythritol and xylitol are more than just sugar substitutes; they offer potential health benefits that extend beyond simple sweetness. By influencing gastrointestinal hormone secretion, they may support appetite regulation and metabolic health, while also providing advantages such as dental health benefits and low caloric content. As dietary patterns continue to evolve towards healthier choices, understanding the roles of these sweeteners will be crucial for both individuals and public health initiatives.7
Reach out to your Icon Foods representative for XeroSweet xylitol and Erysweet erythritol samples, documentation and usage guidance.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9071322/ ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10933973/ ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9071322/ ↩︎
- https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2024/09060/causal_association_between_blood_metabolites_and.78.aspx ↩︎
- https://www.fda.gov/media/132946/download ↩︎
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf020168z ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9824470/ ↩︎
