Xylitol - What Is It?

It seems that many products today contain the additive xylitol.  But what is it?  Xylitol is a sugar alcohol sweetener that is found in birch tree bark, beets, corncobs, raspberries, mushrooms and other natural sources.  Its sweetness is equal to that of sugar, but it has about 40 percent fewer calories, making it a popular sugar-free substitute.  Xylitol not only cuts calories, it also cuts cavities.

How does it work to prevent cavities?
Xylitol helps prevent Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacterium associated with dental caries, from attaching to teeth and tissues in the mouth.  Xylitol cannot be metabolized by bacteria and as a result, the process that creates harmful, enamel-eating acids is drastically reduced.  Regular use of xylitol has been shown to help reduce dental plaque - that gunky build-up that forms on your teeth which is the first stage of cavity development, tartar formation, and tooth staining - and promote better oral health.

How often must a person use xylitol for it to be effective?
Studies have shown that Xylitol gum or mints used three to five times daily (for a total intake of 5 grams) is considered optimal.  Because frequency and duration of exposure is important, gum should be chewed for approximately five mintues and mints should be allowed to dissolve.  Since brushing during the day isn't always an option, I recommend using xylitol containing products immediately after meals and snacks to help reduce palque, inhibit adhesion of bacteria to the teeth, and reduce contact time of sugar on teeth.

Has it been evaluated for safety?
Human consumption of xylitol has been confirmed for safety by a number of agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization's Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives, and the European Union's Scientific Committee on Food.  Please be aware if you are a pet owner that xylitol is poisonous to dogs.

What products contain xylitol and how do I find them?
Recently xylitol use in many products has become mainstream.  Today, xylitol can be found in chewing gums, toothpastes, mouthwashes, candies, and some pharmaceuticals.  On food labels, xylitol is classified broadly as a carbohydrate and more narrowly as a polyol.  Check your local grocery store for items with xylitol and start chewing your way to better oral health.