Benefits Of Xylitol
Today it is often added as a sweetener in chewing gums, throat lozenges, mouthwashes and candies.
It is also a natural fluoride toothpaste alternative that whitens teeth.
Approved by the FDA since 1993 as a food additive and a natural sugar substitute, it can be found in fruits and vegetables like berries and extracted from birch trees. Containing less than 10 calories per teaspoon, it has been used as an effective agent to killthe germs and bacteria that cause bad breath. Xylitol also helps increase the production of saliva reducing dry mouth and breath odor.
Who Uses Xylitol
Concerned about the occurrence of dental caries among military personnel, the U.S. Pentagon ordered that Xylitol gum be added to MRE’s (Meals Ready To Eat) as a means of preventing tooth decay among U.S soldiers.
Chewing Xylitol gum or sucking mints has been recommended for mothers to help prevent the transfer of Mutans Streptococci found in the saliva. The bacteria are usually transmitted from mother to child through kissing.
It can be safely used by diabetics, because it does not require the breakdown of insulin to be metabolized.
Side Effects
In high dosage levels the most severe side effect of Xylitol has been mild gastric distress and diarrhea. This can be reversed by decreasing the dosage level.
Even though it has been proven to be relatively safe in humans, if you are pregnant or nursing consult your physician before use.
Word of caution
Xylitol can be lethal to pets. It has been known to cause seizures, dangerous drops in blood sugar levels, liver failure or death. In the event of accidental ingestion consult your veterinarian.
Where To Find
Xylitol is not a controlled substance and does not require a prescription. It can be easily bought over the counter at health food stores, pharmacies, online and some supermarkets.
Commonly sold in the form of breath strips, mints and gums, prices can vary from $7 and up depending on the quantity and product you purchase.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a safe and effective substitute for sugar or artificial sweeteners then you may want to consider Xylitol as a replacement. Its ability to protect against cavities by killing harmful bacteria also make it an attractive agent for those who prefer to use oral hygiene products like toothpaste without fluoride.
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