Q&A: Artificial sugar and stomach pain?

After eating sugar-free jelly beans, my husband developed severe stomach cramps. Is there anything in sugar-free foods that could cause that problem? —W.W., New City, N.Y. 

Yes. Such foods are often sweetened with substances called sugar alcohols, which can cause stomach cramps and diarrhea. Those sweeteners appear on labels with such names as erythritol, lactitol, maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol. 

If you're sensitive to sugar alcohols, as little as 10 to 15 grams––the typical amount in one to two servings of sweetened food—can trigger gastrointestinal distress.

Take a look at our review of Truvia—a calorie-free, plant-based sweetener, read about how to cut down on gastrointestinal discomfort, and find out if you're at risk for irritable bowel syndrome.