Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide derived from bacterial fermentation, widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, and gelling agent in food, supplements, and other applications. While generally considere...
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide derived from bacterial fermentation, widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, and gelling agent in food, supplements, and other applications. While generally considered safe, high doses can cause gastrointestinal distress. It is also used to thicken liquids for individuals with swallowing difficulties and may have a minor impact on blood sugar control. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
0.5-15 grams daily, depending on application (food, supplements, laxative)
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Xanthan gum is produced by the fermentation of glucose, sucrose, or lactose by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. The polysaccharide is then precipitated from a growth medium with isopropyl alcohol, dried, and ground into a fine powder.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Blood sugar control maintains blood glucose levels within a healthy range, preventing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. This involves insulin regulation, glucose uptake, and liver glucose production, crucial for preventing conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Xanthan gum thickens liquids and stabilizes mixtures by increasing viscosity and preventing ingredient separation. It is commonly used in food and supplements to ensure homogeneity.
At high doses, xanthan gum increases stool bulk and promotes bowel movements, acting as a laxative. This is due to the undigested portion of xanthan gum retaining water in the colon.
Xanthan gum thickens liquids for people with dysphagia, improving swallowing safety and reducing aspiration risk. This makes it easier and more comfortable to consume fluids.
Possible Side Effects
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Gastrointestinal discomfort includes nausea, bloating, and diarrhea, typically mild and transient. Symptoms are often dose-dependent and vary in severity.
Scientific Evidence
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10052888/; https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=172.695; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30041235/
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