Child loses 20 teeth allegedly due to maltodextrin in formula milk
Although some formula milk marketed for children over one year of age has beneficial ingredients, most contain maltodextrin, a type of carbohydrate.
SINAR HARIAN REPORTER
SHAH ALAM - The issue of maltodextrin became viral after a mother shared her grief over her daughter Chempaka Aulia who had her 20 deciduous teeth removed due to toothache.
The mother’s sharing through a TikTok video raised awareness as she emphasised the importance of monitoring children's nutrition and dental health.
With the increase in dental caries and cases of tooth decay among children, it is important to carefully evaluate the ingredients in infant formula.
Although some formula milk marketed for children over one year of age has beneficial ingredients, most contain maltodextrin, a type of carbohydrate.
This substance, although colourless and odourless, provides a slight sweetness and is added to formula milk to give the baby energy, mimicking the carbohydrate content of breast milk.
Harmful subtle sweetness
Although less sweet than sucrose, maltodextrin offers a subtle sweetness that is useful for products that require mild sweeteners but actually has a worse effect on blood sugar than regular sugar.
It is commonly found in processed foods such as snacks, desserts, sauces and drinks, as well as in sports drinks and supplements, providing easily digestible carbohydrates for a quick boost of energy.
However, excessive consumption of maltodextrin, like any carbohydrate, can cause weight gain if not balanced with physical activity.
Previous studies have shown that infant formulas containing maltodextrin and corn starch solids contribute more to tooth decay than those containing only lactose.
Evidence shows that non-natural sugars from milk, such as glucose syrup and maltodextrin, are associated with higher rates of tooth decay.
Tooth decay presents a major challenge to most Malaysian children, leading to pain from extractions and an increased risk of ongoing dental problems and damage to permanent teeth.
Dietary sugar has been identified as a major contributor to tooth decay.
According to the National Dental Health Survey, almost 75 per cent of preschool children in Malaysia suffer from bleeding gums and tooth decay, which affects their self-confidence and development.
Two weeks before the incident, there was a controversy when Farm Fresh Berhad Group Chief Operating Officer known as 'Susu Boss' Azmi Zainal uploaded a statement about maltodextrin and milk intake at a young age, and the risks of maltodextrin in milk products.
However, in his efforts to produce milk without maltodextrin, he was also attacked and criticised by other competitors.
In response, TikTok medical content user and creator only known as Dr Wan emphasised the negative effects of excessive sugar intake, including inflammation and insulin resistance, stressing the importance of prudent dietary choices.
Experts recommend choosing a formula with a blend of premium nutrients such as Probiotics, Prebiotic FOS and Omega 3, while avoiding ingredients such as maltodextrin and corn starch solids.
Choosing a locally produced formula with easy-to-understand labeling can offer peace of mind.
Therefore, parents need to be sensitive to the selection of children's formula milk so that it is free from ingredients such as maltodextrin that can cause side effects if taken frequently and for a long period of time, while providing important nutrients for the healthy development of children.
Professionals often emphasise the importance of carefully checking the ingredients list of milk formula. When evaluating a toddler's formula, it's important to account for any added sugars or unnecessary additives.
Choosing a formula with minimal additives and natural ingredients can promote your child's long-term health.
Finally, it is important to consult a paediatrician or health care provider before making major changes to your child's diet.
