What ingredients do sugar free gum have that regular

Here's a breakdown of the key ingredients in sugar-free gum compared to regular gum:

Regular Gum:

* Sugar: This is the main sweetener, providing the sweetness and a source of energy.

* Gum Base: A sticky, elastic substance that gives the gum its chewiness and texture. This is typically a blend of natural and synthetic ingredients like chicle, jelutong, and synthetic polymers.

* Flavorings: These are extracts and chemicals that provide the gum's taste.

* Softeners: Ingredients like glycerin help keep the gum soft and pliable.

* Fillers: These add bulk and texture to the gum.

* Coloring agents: Used to enhance the appearance of the gum.

Sugar-Free Gum:

* Sugar Substitutes: Instead of sugar, sugar-free gum relies on artificial sweeteners like:

* Xylitol: A natural sugar alcohol found in birch bark, often used in sugar-free gum because it doesn't raise blood sugar levels.

* Sorbitol: Another sugar alcohol, often used in combination with xylitol.

* Mannitol: Yet another sugar alcohol, frequently used in sugar-free gum.

* Aspartame: An artificial sweetener that is much sweeter than sugar.

* Sucralose: An artificial sweetener that is derived from sugar but does not contain calories.

* Gum Base: The same as in regular gum.

* Flavorings: Similar to regular gum, but may be adjusted slightly to compensate for the different sweetness profile.

* Softeners: These may be slightly different in sugar-free gum to adjust for the lack of sugar.

* Fillers: Similar to regular gum.

* Coloring agents: Similar to regular gum.

Key Differences:

* Sweeteners: Sugar-free gum uses artificial sweeteners to provide sweetness without the sugar.

* Calorie Content: Sugar-free gum is much lower in calories than regular gum.

* Potential Side Effects: Some people may experience gastrointestinal issues from sugar alcohols, but these are typically mild and temporary.

Important Notes:

* Xylitol is toxic to dogs: Always keep sugar-free gum out of reach of pets.

* Sugar-free gum can contribute to dental erosion: While sugar-free gum is often promoted as beneficial for teeth, the acidity of the sweeteners can erode enamel over time.

Let me know if you have any other questions about gum!