Sorbitol
a naturally occuring sugar alcohol commonly used in "sugar-free" products. Its caloric content is similar to ordinary sugar, but it is absorbed more slowly, reducing its glycemic index, but often causing gastric discomfort, gas, and diarrhea when consumed in large quantities because intestinal bacteria have ample time to begin breaking it down before it is absorbed. After being absorbed into the bloodstream, sorbitol is converted into fructose.