Isomaltulose: Recent evidence for health benefits

Isomaltulose (IM) is a naturally occurring disaccharide composed of alpha-1,6-linked glucose and fructose monomers. IM is gaining interest as an alternative sweetener to sucrose primarily because of its low glycaemic index (GI) properties. Low GI has been implicated in the prevention and management of chronic diseases such as cardio-metabolic diseases and cancers. The low glycaemic potential of IM has fuelled the many recent in-vitro, animal and human studies including randomised-controlled trials and cohorts. This review discusses the chemical and physiological properties of IM in relation to its potential health effects, with a focus on its prebiotic properties. Research health findings from existing literature published within the last 10 years were compiled and summarised. The novel applications of products formulated with IM in improving health, cognition and nutrition are highlighted in this review. This review also evaluates the prebiotic potential of IM, an emerging alternative sweetener.