What is Xylitol ?
What is Xylitol ? a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener. It is a naturally occurring substance found in many fruits and vegetables, and is often extracted from birch wood or corn cobs for commercial use. Xylitol has several characteristics that make it popular, particularly in sugar-free and low-carb products:
- Sweetness: It has a sweetness level comparable to sugar (sucrose), but with fewer calories—about 2.4 calories per gram compared to sugar’s 4 calories per gram.
- Glycemic Index: has a low glycemic index (GI of around 7), making it a suitable sweetener for people with diabetes as it causes a much smaller increase in blood glucose and insulin levels compared to sugar.
- Dental Health: Xylitol is known for its dental benefits. It does not contribute to tooth decay because oral bacteria cannot ferment it, thus it reduces levels of decay-causing bacteria in the mouth. Xylitol is often found in sugar-free gum, toothpaste, and other dental products.
- Digestive Impact: In large amounts, xylitol can cause digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea because it is partially absorbed in the intestines.
- Toxicity to Animals: Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia and potentially fatal liver damage. It is important to keep products containing xylitol away from pets.
What is Xylitol ? is often used in a variety of foods and products including sugar-free gum, mints, candies, baked goods, and oral care products.