noun
- A synthetic sugar alcohol derived from lactose, used as a laxative and in food products as a sweetener and bulking agent.
Usage: pharmaceutical; food science
Examples
- Lactitol is commonly prescribed to treat constipation in both children and adults.
- The medication lactitol works by drawing water into the intestines to soften stool.
- Many sugar-free food products contain lactitol as a sweetening ingredient.
- Patients taking lactitol may experience mild bloating as a side effect.
- Lactitol is less likely to cause tooth decay compared to regular sugar.