Do sugar replacers (polyols) cause gastrointestinal problems? What should a person do if he or she is sensitive?

For the vast majority of consumers, these sweeteners do not cause a problem.  In some people, excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas or laxative effects, similar to reactions to beans and certain high-fiber foods.  Such symptoms depend on an individual's sensitivity and the other foods eaten at the same time.  Gastrointestinal symptoms, if they occur at all, are usually mild and temporary.  If a person believes she/he is sensitive, the amount eaten on a single occasion should be reduced.  Most people will adapt after a few days, the same way they do to high fiber foods.  May people with diabetes, for example, have learned from their health professional to eat only a small amount of sugar-free products containing polyols at first and then to gradually increase these foods in their diets.

Source:  Calorie Control Council