The “Not Sugar” That’s Worse Than Sugar
The hidden carb in your ‘healthy’ foods that spikes blood sugar faster than pure glucose
You’ve probably heard the saying “What you don’t know can’t hurt you.”
Well… when it comes to maltodextrin, what you don’t know might just hurt you a lot.
On paper, maltodextrin is just a carbohydrate. It’s not technically classified as sugar. But in your body? It acts like sugar on steroids.
Let’s talk numbers:
Sugar (table sugar): Glycemic Index 65
High fructose corn syrup: 87
Glucose: 100
Maltodextrin: 136
Yep, you read that right. It spikes your blood sugar higher and faster than pure glucose. That means insulin levels shoot through the roof… and that’s the fast track to weight gain, insulin resistance, and all kinds of metabolic chaos.
What It Really Is
Maltodextrin is an ultra-processed white powder made from GMO corn, rice, wheat, tapioca, or potato starch. Food companies use it as a thickener, filler, and cheap way to add “bulk” without adding “sugar” to the label. Sneaky, right?
Even better (for them), they don’t have to list it as “sugar” or “added sugar.” They can tuck it under names like “modified food starch,” “modified corn starch,” or the vague catch-all “natural flavors.”
Where You’ll Find It
Spoiler alert: It’s everywhere.
Check the ingredient list on:
Artificial sweeteners (yep, the ones marketed as “sugar-free”)
Nutrition bars and weight-loss shakes
Baked goods and cereals
Low-fat or “diet” foods
Sauces, dressings, spice mixes, and condiments
Chips, snacks, and even beer
If it comes in a box, bag, or bottle… odds are good maltodextrin has been invited to the party.
Why You Should Care
Regular doses of maltodextrin can lead to:
Altered gut bacteria
Blood sugar spikes and crashes
Increased risk of diabetes and insulin resistance
Digestive issues like IBD, Crohn’s, and ulcerative colitis
Hormonal imbalance
Weight gain
That’s not exactly the picture of health.
The Bottom Line
The food industry loves maltodextrin because it’s cheap, tasteless, and makes products last longer on the shelf. But your body? Not a fan.
If you want steady energy, balanced hormones, and a healthy gut, the simplest move is this: Read the label. If you see maltodextrin or its aliases, put it back.
Your health is worth more than a “low-fat” snack with a hidden blood sugar bomb inside.
So today, do a quick pantry check. Pick one product with maltodextrin and swap it for a whole, real food alternative. Your future self will thank you.
If this hit home, share it, like it, and leave a comment so more people find it. What we share is for information and education only… we’re not doctors. We’re just sharing what’s worked for us. Always check with your healthcare pro before making changes.