What is xylitol and what are its benefits for your oral health?
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that comes from many different plant materials. It is a very popular sugar substitute, especially used in many sugar-free devices.
Unlike sugar, it does not break down and can therefore help maintain a neutral pH level in the mouth. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria assimilate ingested sugars. Foods containing regular sugar nourish the bacteria in our mouths by giving them the energy to multiply and produce acids. It is these acids that weaken and demineralize tooth enamel, thus initiating the process that causes tooth decay.
Bacteria are unable to digest xylitol and therefore to multiply and produce acids. The pH level then remains more neutral and enamel degradation is less likely to occur. Bacteria also do not adhere as well to tooth surfaces after consuming xylitol.
Less bacteria = less acid = healthier teeth!
Some research even shows that xylitol can help repair damaged enamel. The saliva in our mouth is protective in itself, but stimulated saliva in particular contains all the components needed to repair demineralized areas of enamel.
Use in diabetes:
Xylitol is a lower calorie alternative to table sugar… actually about 33% less. It is also absorbed more slowly by the body and does not contribute to high blood sugar levels or hyperglycemia caused by insufficient insulin response.
Dry mouth:
Many people with dry mouth try to moisten their mouths by sucking on mints and hard candies or chewing gum. Choosing a sugar-free alternative sweetened with xylitol can help relieve symptoms of dry mouth and reduce the risk of developing cavities.
Security :
Xylitol has no known toxicity in humans, but it can be life-threatening to dogs that have consumed foods containing more than 100 milligrams of xylitol per kilogram of body weight. Consuming 500 milligrams per kilogram of body weight can cause liver failure resulting in death of the dog. Some studies have reported adaptation (an increase in laxative threshold) after several weeks of regular consumption of xylitol products. Keep in mind that excessive consumption may cause abdominal discomfort with temporary gastrointestinal side effects such as bloating, flatulence and diarrhea.
Consume xylitol as a sugar substitute for weight loss.
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that can be used to enhance your weight loss efforts. Unlike artificial sweeteners, xylitol is an all-natural sweetener derived from birch and other hardwood trees. It has the same flavor as regular sugar without all the calories and carbs, making it a great alternative when trying to reduce body fat. Thanks to its mildness and health benefits, xylitol can be a great way to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
How does it work ?
Xylitol is able to transform the type of bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities into bacteria that do not. It is essential to use xylitol products on a continuous basis, as a single use is not enough to prevent cavities. Make sure that the dose of xylitol in the products you use is sufficient, as it is recommended to consume between 1 and 20 g of xylitol per day to experience the benefits of preventing cavities. Some xylitol products contain only trace amounts of xylitol, so be sure to look at the label carefully.
Where is xylitol found?
Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that can be derived from plants and fruits, although it is most often synthesized artificially. It is found in a whole host of processed foods, including chewing gum and candy. Some toothpastes and mouthwashes even contain xylitol to help prevent tooth decay. In addition, some dietary supplements also contain xylitol as an additive. Xylitol has even been used in low carb baked goods as an alternative to regular sugar because it contains far fewer calories than traditional table sugar. Its unique properties also make it an excellent ingredient for syrups, jams and other spreads!
