Xylitol is a
low-calorie sweetener used as a substitute for sugar. It is a white crystalline powder classified as a sugar alcohol and is made in Finland through a chemical process in which
birch wood fibers are treated with acid, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Xylitol is a
safe sugar alternative that has
health and dental benefits. It is a natural occurring substance found in fruits, hardwoods, corn cobs and mushrooms.
Xylitol has the same sweetness as sugar with
no aftertaste, which is common with many sugar substitutes. Occasionally people may notice a “cooling effect” on their tongue when tasting it. This is due to your saliva interacting with the
Xylitol on your tongue.
Health Benefits:
• Suitable for Diabetics - Xylitol also has a low glycemic index value of only 7, has minimal effect on blood sugar levels, and does not require insulin to metabolize. It is not only effective for those with diabetes or people with hypoglycemia, but for anyone who is sensitive to sugar.
• Good Dental Health - Less than 15g. of Xylitol is needed to prevent tooth decay. Xylitol greatly reduces tooth decay by stopping it in its tracks and even reversing existing tooth damage. It also reduces plaque formation and resists fermentation by oral bacteria.
• Lower Calories - Xylitol has about 40% lower calories than sugar, with the same sweetening power as sugar. It is good for anyone who is on a diet, watching their calories, or just wants to be healthier.
• No problems in digestion - You may have heard of other sugar alcohols or seen labels on products that warn of a laxative effect. Most other sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, isomalt, or lactitol may cause digestion problems. Xylitol is the sugar alcohol of choice because is as sweet as sugar, a natural choice, with no side effects like the others.
• Other Great Advantages - Although Xylitol has been used as a sweetener since the 1960’s in the United States, there are recent studies that confirm that it is more than just a great tasting low calorie alternative to sugar. Xylitol destroys bacteria that may cause ear infections and ulcers and may even help strengthen bones. It is even recommended for use by pregnant women.
Traditional uses:
Can be used in cakes, sponges, cereals, over fruit or in your favourite dish in equal amounts as regular sugar.
Xylitol is used in many low-calorie commercial food products, toothpastes, mouthwashes and even in pharmaceutical drugs
125g.
