Sugar Substitute – Xylitol: A Sweet Alternative for Your Dental Health
Xylitol has been gaining popularity as a sugar substitute, especially in candies and chewing gum. This natural sweetener, derived from corn or birch trees, offers a texture and sweetness comparable to sugar, but with fewer negative effects.
Benefits of Xylitol
Xylitol provides several advantages for oral health:
- It’s non-fermentable, preventing oral bacteria from producing cavity-causing acids
- It inhibits bacteria from sticking to cellular tissue, reducing bacterial growth
- It contains 40% fewer calories than regular sugar
- It has minimal impact on insulin and blood sugar levels
Uses of Xylitol
You can find xylitol in various products:
- Sugar-free candies and chewing gum
- Dry mouth products
- Diabetic-friendly food items
For habitual gum chewers, xylitol-containing gum like Spry offers a great sugar-free option without the side effects of artificial sweeteners.
Special Considerations
While xylitol is generally safe, keep these points in mind:
- Our bodies naturally produce up to 15 grams of xylitol daily
- Excessive consumption may have a laxative effect
- Xylitol is toxic to dogs, so keep products containing it out of your pets’ reach
If you have questions about xylitol, sugar substitute, or need product recommendations, ask your dentist at your next visit.
References:
Life Extension Magazine: https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2014/2/sweet-as-sugar-health-benefits-of-stevia-and-xylitol/page-01