What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a safe and delicious FDA-approved sugar substitute (also known as a polyol) that can help prevent cavities and plaque build-up. This naturally occurring sweetener is found in many fruits, such as raspberries, strawberries and kiwis. Our bodies normally produce about 15 grams of xylitol each day.
Who Invented Xylitol?
Nobel Prize-winning chemists discovered Xylitol in the late nineteenth century, and it became a popular sweetener during the sugar shortages of World War II. Scientists later discovered important medical uses for Xylitol, and it was used in treating insulin reactions. The U.S. approved Xylitol as a safe food additive in 1963 and, in the decade that followed, Finnish scientists became aware of Xylitol’s dental benefits. In 1975 the first Xylitol chewing gum was marketed as a tasty and healthier alternative to sugar.
Where Does Xylitol Come From?
Most commercially used Xylitol is naturally derived from corn cobs and stalks, or tree fiber, called xylan. Medical professionals who research and understand the full range of Xyltiol's benefits recommend that consumers buy only products that are 100% Xylitol sweetened and made from the highest quality pharmaceutical grade Xylitol available. Advocates for Xylitol education encourage consumers to read ingredient labels and avoid major gum brands that use potentially harmful artificial sweeteners and only a token amount of Xylitol. Always use 100% Xylitol sweetened products to achieve maximum therapeutic benefits.
What Are Some Benefits of Using Xylitol?
Since its discovery, numerous clinical studies have proven Xylitol effectively lessens the severity and occurrence of inner ear and sinus infections (especially in children), reduces dental caries by up to 80%, fights plaque, helps fluoride penetrate teeth, and actually assists in the emineralization of damaged tooth enamel.
Additionally, recent research shows Xylitol is a natural enemy of bacteria. Normally, when certain harmful bacteria enter the body, they attach to the membranes of the nose and throat and cause infection as they begin to culture and grow. But when exposed to Xylitol some harmful bacteria lose their ability to adhere to infected membranes. Unlike antibiotics, which tend to eradicate the majority of bacteria but leave stronger, resistant strains behind, Xylitol simply flushes harmful bacteria away.
Is Xylitol Safe?
Yes, Xylitol is rated
safe by the FDA and World Health Organiziation. It has been endorsed by national dental associations, health organizations, and medical professionals worldwide. Delicious Xylitol products have been enjoyed by millions in the United States, Europe and Asia for three decades.
Not surprisingly, the Xylitol products
your dentist has prescribed are recommended
and used by health professionals
throughout the world.
Who Can Use Xylitol? 
Xylitol can be used by everyone--infants, children, adults and the elderly--with none of the health
concerns that often accompany artificial sweeteners.
Xylitol looks and tastes as sweet as sugar, but has
40% fewer calories, 75% fewer carbohydrates, and
a much lower glycemic index (7), which makes it safe
and beneficial for diabetics, hypoglycemics and
everyone concerned with achieving and maintaining
an ideal body weight.
These recommendations are general guidelines and are not intended to replace
regular check-ups, your health care provider’s advice, or other health
maintenance practices that your doctor may have prescribed. Please consult
with your dentist or other health care practitioner for further recommendations
specific to your personal dental and health concerns.
As with any products, use common sense and avoid giving gum and mints
to infants, small children, or anyone else for whom these products may pose
a choking hazard.
