Danisco Introduces Gentler Laxative

OsmoAid, based on Danisco’s Lactitol disaccharide sugar alcohol, is a new laxative product aimed at promoting gut mobility in constipated individuals. According to the company, it offers better tolerability, without the harsh effects of conventional laxatives.

Lactitol is a sweet-tasting, odolorless crystalline powder that is recognized as an ingredient for food and dietary supplements, with approval from FAO and WHO.

OsmoAid is said to work by lowering colonic pH and stimulating peristalsis, the motion that contracts and relaxes bowel muscles. It also increases the osmotic pressure in the intestinal lumen, increasing fecal volume.

Danisco says studies on constipated adults and children have demonstrated OsmoAid’s efficacy and shown that it is well tolerated, without unnecessary adverse effects.