Fruit does have xylitol, as do many vegetables and other plants. Xylitol is a natural substance found in plant fibers. It is an alcohol sugar, as are mannitol and sorbitol. Alcohol sugars are natural sweeteners that your body processes differently than it does sugar. In reasonable amounts, these sweeteners are safe and well-tolerated by most people, and they can have some health benefits.
How Sweet It Is
Xylitol is commonly extracted from corn and hardwood trees for commercial use. The granulated form is equal to sugar for sweetening. That is, a teaspoonful of either will provide about the same sweetness. A teaspoon of xylitol has about 30 to 40 percent fewer calories than sugar, and your body uses it more slowly. You can use xylitol to sweeten any food, but it will not work with yeast to make bread rise.
Xylitol and Tooth Decay
Xylitol helps prevent tooth decay. According to the California Dental Association, "Xylitol inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause cavities." It is available in gum, mints and toothpaste. The CDA suggests using gum or mints with xylitol three to five times daily for a total of 5 g a day. Xylitol also increases the flow of saliva, so it is helpful to people with dry mouth.
Xylitol and Ear Infections
The same bacteria-killing action of xylitol that helps protect your teeth helps to prevent ear infections, especially in children. Xylitol is safe for children and pregnant women. If you use xylitol during pregnancy, you may pass on fewer cavity-causing bacteria to your baby, the CDA says. Ask your doctor and dentist for advice on the optimal amount. Children will need some instruction about allowing xylitol mints to dissolve slowly to get the most benefit.
Cautions
MayoClinic.com warns diabetics to use caution with xylitol, as it may raise blood sugar in some individuals. The most common symptoms of intolerance to alcohol sugars are nausea, bloating and diarrhea. Some people have also reported allergies to xylitol, Drugs.com states. Xylitol is toxic to dogs.
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