What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that is extracted from different sources in nature, mainly fruits and vegetables. The prime source of xylitol is birch wood and this was traditionally how xylitol was extracted. It is also naturally occurring in berries, mushrooms, corn, oats and plums. It is primarily extracted from corn sources though other sources are also used to extract this natural sugar substitute. Though xylitol is almost as sweet as sugar, it has a lower number of calories than the latter. A teaspoon of xylitol contains only 9.6 calories in comparison to the 15 calories contained in 1 teaspoon of sugar.

What is Xylitol Used In?
Since it is a natural sugar substitute, xylitol functions as a great choice as a sweetener for diabetics, and those who suffer from hypoglycemia. Xylitol is not exactly a sugar but a sugar alcohol due to its molecular structure. Whereas one molecule of any type of sugar such as glucose or fructose has 6 carbon atoms, a xylitol molecule contains 5 carbon atoms. This property of xylitol enables the protection of teeth from caries and decay.

In the area of dental health, xylitol is known to be most helpful in the protection of teeth from cavities and decay. This is because the bacteria in the mouth are unable to break the molecular structure of xylitol and utilize it. Furthermore, they are unable to grow as their metabolic activity is reduced in the presence of xylitol. As such, in spite of being sweet, our teeth are protected. This is why xylitol is an ingredient most commonly found in chewing gum. Any gum that claims to be safe for the teeth as well as low calorie is one that is made from xylitol. However, do ensure this by checking the ingredients before you go ahead and consume the gum. It is definitely a better choice for all of you in the habit of using gum as mouth fresheners as you get the best of both worlds by using it. Xylitol is also known to prevent the erosion of the tooth enamel that causes several dental problems.

Other Benefits of Xylitol
An important benefit of xylitol is that it can be used in the form of a nasal wash for those suffering from a sinus infection. Since bacteria cannot metabolize this sugar, they get washed away by a nasal wash prepared from xylitol. Further, it has been found that xylitol can help cure ear infections and is used in medicines for the same. This sugar alcohol is not converted into fats by the body and is therefore recommended for those suffering from diabetes. However, as with any food additive, though natural, an excess can cause numerous side effects.

Side Effects of Xylitol
Since xylitol is not easily converted into fats, an excess of xylitol can cause bloating and flatulence. It may harm the natural laxative function of the body leading to diarrhea. It also leads to an increase in the uric acid concentration in the body that may result in kidney stones. Some people may be allergic to this food additive and this may show in the form of skin rash and hives.

As xylitol is primarily found in gum, it is the best way to make the benefit of its tooth decay prevention properties by this means. About 5-10 grams of xylitol is helpful in this function. Usually one piece of gum contains 1 gram of xylitol, so you may monitor your intake in this manner. About 4-8 pieces of xylitol gum can be consumed in a day. If you are consuming syrups or lozenges for an infection then ensure you take their xylitol content into account. Xylitol as a sweetener and a sugar substitute has been confirmed safe by the World Health Organization (WHO) and has also been approved by the FDA.

A lot of people, after learning what xylitol is and all its benefits for the teeth, consider replacing their methods of daily dental hygiene by simply chewing xylitol gum. Do not attempt this as xylitol alone cannot maintain dental health. You must follow the dental care basics daily by brushing your teeth twice a day and going for regular dental check ups. Xylitol is not what you would consider the easy way out. Consume it in limited amounts and it will prove beneficial. Go overboard and you will have to face the side effects it causes.