Xylitol Effects on Vision

Xylitol is a natural substance that is found in fibrous foods like fruits and vegetables. The chemical is present in corn cobs and the bark of hardwood trees like birch. This chemical also occurs as an intermediate product in the metabolism of glucose. It is also synthesized naturally by the body, which produces about 15g of the compound daily.

Chemical Properties of Xylitol

• Xylitol chemical properties are much like those of sugar. The compound both looks and tastes like processed sugar; however, while sugar can be harmful to the body, xylitol repairs and heals the body. Xylitol is also vital in increasing the immunity of the body by protecting it against degenerative diseases. There are also anti-aging benefits of this compound. Sugars produce acid in the body, while xylitol enhances alkalinity. Xylitol also has antibacterial properties.

Manufacture of Xylitol

• Though natural xylitol is good for the body’s health, processed xylitol may not be healthy. Processed Xylitol contains chemicals and toxins, which are added during the manufacture of the artificial sweetener. When Xylan is processed through acid hydrolyzing, two byproducts are achieved: acetic acid and xylose. For further hydrogenation, a nickel aluminium alloy is used as a catalyst. Ultimately, the resultant compound is not as safe as it may sound.

Artificial Sweeteners and Xylitol

• Artificial sweeteners like aspartame are known to have many damaging side effects. Aspartame can cause triggering of Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons disease, brain tumors and multiple sclerosis. However on the other hand, sweeteners based on the compound Xylitol, can help repair damage caused by infections. Xylitol itself is considered a valuable supplement for the body. As compared to any other supplements, Xylitol is considered a safer alternative.

The Effect of Xylitol on Vision

• While there are no particular studies done on the effects of Xylitol on vision, it has been observed that the acetic acid contained in the artificial sweetener can be harmful for the human body. The acidic nature of the sweetener, because of the inherent acetic acid, can cause irritation in the eyes upon contact. However, the effect of xylitol on vision has not be studied enough to point to any conclusive results.

Concerns

• As a natural byproduct of metabolism, xylitol is an important nutrient. However, the processing of the synthetic chemical after the extraction from fibrous fruits or vegetables can alter the composition and the properties of the synthetic compound. There are claims that xylitol is good for the teeth and the gums. However, studies have proved that it is not so. Processed sugars in any form are considered bad for the body. If taken regularly, as a part of the diet, the synthetic sugars can be harmful to the body.