Xylitol is a natural substance that is as sweet as sugar. The nonprofit Calorie Control Council reports that it has only 2.4 calories per gram, while sugar has 4.0 calories per gram. Not only does xylitol not contribute to cavities as sugar does, but it actually serves a protective function reducing the incidence of cavities. A common ingredient in gum and natural toothpastes, it is considered safe for diabetics.
Definition
Xylitol is a white crystalline substance. It is a sugar alcohol rather than a sugar, making it more similar to substances such as sorbitol and mannitol than to conventional sweeteners such as glucose and sucrose. Sugar alcohols are a type of polyol, a class of carbohydrates that are similar in molecular structure to both sugars and alcohols. Xylitol was first identified in the late 19th century by a German chemist. During the second world war, at least one country started producing xylitol when sucrose became hard to obtain.
Sources
Xylitol occurs naturally in some plants, including mushrooms and berries. The human body also produces a small amount as part of normal metabolism. Birch and other hard woods have long been the main source of commercially produced xylitol. Now processes converting the by-products of ethanol production into xylitol are in development.
Dental Benefits
Xylitol has gained popularity in recent years due to its proven ability to prevent cavities. According to the California Dental Association, xylitol inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria responsible for cavities. Xylitol use can not only reduce cavities, it can also reduce the bacteria level in the mouth and the amount of plaque accumulating on the teeth. When consumed by pregnant women, it can also decrease transmission of S. mutans to newborns. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved xylitol for safety and allows for claims that xylitol products do not promote tooth decay.
Other Uses
The sweetness and calorie content of xylitol make it a popular sugar substitute in products ranging from gum and mints to throat lozenges and children's vitamins. Natural products for dental care such as toothpaste and mouthwash can also contain xylitol. Many diabetics find that they can safely consume xylitol, although anyone with blood sugar issues should consult a physician before doing so.
Cautions
Xylitol is safe for humans, but poses a health hazard for dogs. Dogs who consume xylitol experience a rapid drop in blood sugar due to boosted insulin production. This can lead to symptoms as severe as seizures. In addition, some dogs have suffered acute liver failure following exposure to xylitol. Veterinarian Eric Dunayer warns that symptoms can arise as quickly as 30 minutes after xylitol consumption, and that immediate medical intervention is necessary. Xylitol also creates the potential for misdiagnosis in some children, mostly of Jewish heritage, who do not digest xylitol. The xylitol itself does not cause problems, but this condition, known as pentosuria, can lead to a diagnosis of diabetes due to xylitol in the urine when in fact the child is not diabetic.
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