BENEO's Palatinose is a smart-release carbohydrate derived from sugar beet, which is unique because of its molecular structure. As a disaccharide, Palatinose consists of glucose and fructose molecules, making it similar to sucrose; however, in contrast to this, the linkage of the molecules is much stronger, which means the human body digests it fully yet more slowly. As a result, the full carbohydrate energy (glucose) is provided in a steady and sustained way. The blood glucose levels stay balanced without sudden ups and downs, and this also helps to burn fat more effectively. An increased fat-burning rate means that active consumers can draw on their carbohydrate reserves for longer.
A recent study compared a low-glycaemic diet with a highglycaemic diet in a real-life scenario. The results showed participants who followed the low glycaemic diet, which included BENEO's functional carbohydrate Palatinose, experienced three main improvements: a lower glycaemic profile, reduced variability in blood sugar and improved fat burning.
"The study by Christiani Jeyakumar Henry really shows how Palatinose can contribute to a healthier diet when used as part of a low glycaemic diet," says Anke Sentko, vice-president of regulatory affairs and nutrition communication at BENEO. "The unique combination of measuring the continuous blood glucose response, as well as energy provision, reflects a real-life scenario. The benefits can be seen after each meal and the cumulative benefit is even higher, thanks to a shift in the metabolic set-up that is carried over from one meal to the next.
"Given high blood-sugar levels are a risk factor in the onset of type 2 diabetes, these findings demonstrate how Palatinose opens opportunities for consumer products that not only promote blood sugar management, but also weight management. In addition, an EU health claim highlighting the rise in blood sugar is possible when Palatinose (isomaltulose) is used to replace sucrose by 30%."
