Xylitol, a sugar alcohol, occurs naturally in the fibers of fruits and vegetables such as oats, strawberries, raspberries, yellow plums, corn husks and mushrooms, and is extracted from the bark of birch trees. According to Drugs.com, xylitol is often used as a sugar substitute, as it is as sweet as sugar but has 40 percent fewer calories. Xylitol was approved as a food additive by the U.S Food and Drug Administration in 1963.
Otitis Media
Otitis media, an infection of the middle ear, occurs when the eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nose, become blocked with fluid, according to the University of Maryland. Bacteria, mucus and pus caused by the infection can accumulate behind the eardrum, causing pressure and pain. Symptoms of otitis media include fever, pain and difficulty hearing. In small children signs also include pulling on the ears, trouble sleeping and crying.
According to an article by J. L. Danhauer, et al, published in a 2010 issue of the "International Journal of Audiology," 10g five times a day of xylitol, either in chewing gum or syrup, had a preventive effect against acute otitis media.
Dental Caries
Dental caries are holes or structural damage to the teeth. According to MedlinePlus, bacteria normally found in the mouth convert the food we eat into acids. This acid combines with the bacteria, saliva and food debris to form plaque, which sticks to the surface of the teeth. The acids in plaque create caries by dissolving the enamel surface of the tooth. If left untreated, an infection can occur, leading to the loss of the tooth. Symptoms of dental caries include visible holes in the teeth and tooth pain, particularly after eating, hot, cold or sweet foods.
According to an article published in a 2009 issue of "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine," 8g of xylitol syrup two or three times daily was effective in preventing dental caries.
Side Effects
Sugar alcohols like xylitol are not fully broken down during digestion, and so may have a laxative effect. According to Drug.com, dosages of xylitol exceeding 40 to 50 g daily can cause diarrhea, bloating, nausea and colic; patients taking laxatives should consult a doctor before taking xylitol.
References
- Drugs: Xylitol
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Otitis Media
- "International Journal of Audiology"; Xylitol As a Prophylaxis for Acute Otitis Media -- Systematic Review; J. L. Danhauer, C. E. Johnson, N. E. Corbin, K. G. Bruccheri; 2010
- Medline Plus: Dental Cavities
- "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine"; Xylitol Pediatric Topical Oral Syrup to Prevent Dental Caries: A Double-blind Randomized Clinical Trial of Efficacy; 2009
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