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Find out what xylitol can do for you

The sugar of xylitol is a low-calorie sugar substitute with a low glycemic index. It helps improve dental health, prevent ear infections and possesses antioxidant properties. This supplement can be found naturally in small amounts in fibrous fruits and vegetables, trees, cobs, and even in the human body.

Manufacturers use xylitol as a sugar substitute because its sweetness is comparable to that of table sugar, but with fewer calories. Birch sugar is a common ingredient in many products, from sugar-free gum to toothpaste. People also use it as a tabletop sweetener and for baking.

What is xylitol?

Xylitol or birch sugar is a natural alcohol found in most plant material, including many fruits and vegetables. It is extracted from birch wood to make medicines. It is widely used as a sugar substitute and in chewing gums, mints and other “sugar-free” candies.

Where does it come from?

It is extracted from the fiber of fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, berries, oats, corn husks, sugar cane among others. It can be extracted in different ways, including extracting birch sap, as well as allowing the isolated chemical to ferment the xylose and extract a high yield of xylitol.

Use of xylitol as a sweetener for desserts

Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in the sage of some trees, mainly in the Abeludes. One of its most useful features is that it can be replaced by the exact weight of sugar in most recipes, which makes substitution in dessert recipes very easy. It is used in the preparation of different desserts, as a substitute for sugar.

It is used in the preparation of different desserts such as gluten-free lemon pie, gluten-free pizza dough, gluten-free banana donuts, gluten-free rice flour brownie, gluten-free and dairy-free rice pancakes, cakes, doughnuts, jam, mousse, pudding, cookies, custard, abstract glass and many more recipes.

Use of xylitol in chewing gum or chewing gums

Xylitol, also known as birch sugar, is added to some chewing gums to take care of oral health, prevent tooth decay and dry mouth. Chewing gum with Xylitol is an ideal choice for snacks after meals or when you’re traveling. It’s not always practical to brush your teeth, but xylitol gum presents a different option for those with busy lifestyles.

Since birch sugar inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, it is also very helpful in helping to keep breath fresh. Anyone suffering from bad breath or halitosis will find it extremely beneficial.

Chewing gum gives you the ability to fight cavities anywhere and anytime, but that’s a great choice for oral health.

Properties of birch sugar

The properties of birch sugar include great benefits for controlling glucose and insulin levels, controlling diabetes, improving gum and tooth health, aiding in weight loss efforts, and improving sinus health, among others.

  • Diabetes control.
  • Dental care.
  • Antibacterial properties.
  • Oral Health.
  • Weight loss.
  • Decreased ear infections or problems.
  • Better sinus health.
  • Bone mineral density.
  • Improves digestion.
  • It can help prevent cancer.
  • Reinforced Immune System.

Is there a link between xylitol and cancer?

There is no data to suggest that birch sugar is carcinogenic or associated with an increased risk of cancer. Two in vitro studies suggest that it may have antiproliferative properties, but this has not been investigated among human subjects.

This compound may be an effective agent in providing relief from radiation-induced xerostomia, although the studies reviewed did not evaluate xylitol as a single agent, but rather in a product with multiple potentially beneficial components.

Why is it important for oral health?

xylitol and oral health

Xylitol has the ability to remineralize lYour teeth, it makes them stronger. Birch sugar not only inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause cavities, but also acts as fluoride to help strengthen teeth.

Thanks to birch sugar, there is an all-natural way to drastically improve oral health. Surprisingly, it’s not the result of a billion-dollar pharmaceutical campaign to create a wonderful drug for the oral health, but it is a totally natural product, safe and backed by dentists around the world.

Anyone looking for a powerful ally against cavities now has an exceptional option available.

Contraindications

It is recommended to be cautious with the xylitol consumption. Take it in moderate and progressive amounts so that the body does not experience negative effects.

Some people experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as:

  • Higher doses can cause digestive side effects in some people.
  • For most people, it is well tolerated in doses of up to 90 grams per day.

However, for some people, they use higher doses that can cause digestive side effects and discomfort. Typical symptoms may include:

  • Bloating.
  • Stomach pain.
  • Increased uric acid in the blood.
  • Formation of kidney stones.
  • Allergic reactions.
  • Itchy skin.
  • Heavy breathing.
  • Swollen mouth.

Poisoning dogs with xylitol

Xylitol is a natural sweetener highly toxic to dogs. It causes in them liver failure, low sugar level, among other diseases that can trigger poisoning and even the death of your pet. It produces symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination and can even lead to seizures.

Dog owners should know that xylitol cannot be consumed by their pets, as it is a toxic product, even if they consume it in small amounts. If your dog eats a product that contains xylitol it is important that you immediately take it to the veterinarian.

 

About Andrew Parkinson

Andrew Parkinson is a highly accomplished pharmacist with a passion for improving healthcare. With a wealth of experience in both community and clinical pharmacy settings, he's known for his dedication to patient well-being. Mr. Parkinson actively engages in medication management, offering personalized solutions and promoting better health outcomes. He has also played a pivotal role in educating patients on proper medication usage and potential interactions. Andrew's commitment to advancing the field of pharmacy and ensuring safe and effective drug therapies has garnered him recognition as a trusted and invaluable healthcare professional, making a positive impact on countless lives.

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