A few weeks ago I discussed the product xylitol.  I have had a lot of people ask more questions about the sweetener so I thought I would give you a few more details about it in this week’s article.  As I mentioned before, Xylitol is a sugar substitute derived from plants that has the same sweetness as sucrose, but 40% fewer calories and no aftertaste. 

Xylitol was discovered in the late 1800’s, but was found to have cavity fighting properties in the 1940’s when, due to sugar shortages in Europe, the Scandinavian countries began to use it as a sugar substitute.  By the 1950’s, children in these countries were observed to have fewer cavities than children in countries still utilizing sugar.  There are a variety of products that can be utilized in the fight against decay. 

They include:

•  Toothpaste
• Oral rinses
• Mints
• Chewing gum. 

Xylitol is a natural sugar derived most commonly from birch trees, corn cobs and corn stalks.  This sugar is unique, however, in that it contains only 5 carbon atoms per molecule instead of the 6 found in common sugar (I threw that in for all of the chemists out there!).  This molecular difference is a key to xylitol’s antibacterial properties.  When exposed to this 5-carbon sugar, bacteria lose their ability to adhere to the surface of the teeth as well.  Tooth destroying acids are reduced and plaque is more easily brushed and rinsed out of the mouth.  As I mentioned before, Xylitol also works to inhibit the decay process by restoring pH levels to above 5.7.  By reducing the acidity of the mouth, xylitol slows down erosion of the teeth and allows for re-mineralization of damaged tooth structure.  Salivary flow is enhanced (as it is with most mints or gum) which helps sweep away harmful, decay causing bacteria and materials.  When combined with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, the result is a healthier smile, fresher breath and fewer cavities. 

Xylitol looks, acts and behaves like sugar in baking, cooking and other uses.  It all sounds too good to be true, but I have utilized it in several things and found the results to be excellent.  The FDA and World Health Organizations have given Xylitol sweeteners their highest rating for food additives so you can use it with full confidence that it not only tastes good, but is also good for you.  As an aside, I have also found xylitol in mild saline nasal sprays.  It can be utilized for regular rinsing of the nasal passages and is beneficial to one’s upper respiratory health.

If you would like more information on xylitol you can go to www.xylitolinfo.com.  Xylitol is available at many health centers and natural food stores.  If you type xylitol into your computers search engine you will find numerous sources for the products.  The two I have personally tried are www.physicianspreference.com and www.xlear.com.  I made lemonade with the sweet-n-natural product from physicians preference and thought it was great. 

Healthy smiles for the whole family begin with good oral hygiene and regular dental care, but it’s nice to have a little help at home, especially when it tastes so good!