What is the Function of Xylitol?

Xylitol is a white crystalline powder that is a new natural sweetener made from corncob or sugar cane bagasse. It contains a similar sweetness to the well-known sucrose.

Function

• Xylitol is a fairly new natural sweetener that is often used for health reasons for appropriate candidates. Using xylitol, rather than sugar, can reduce the risk for tooth cavities, plaque formation and ear infection.

Medical Use

• Xylitol can be found in dentist's offices in toothpastes and mouthwashes. Due to its natural sweet taste it is also found in oral medication that does not require water to swallow. The sweet taste enhances a chewable or dissolving pill.

Where can it be found?

• Xylitol is found in food and plants that we interact with everyday. Considerable amounts of xylitol are found in plums, strawberries and raspberries.

Alternative Uses

• Xylitol can be used in many different products that we consume. It can be used in chewing gum, chocolates and candies. It can also be used as a healthier alternative in desserts such as cake and cookies.

Warning

• Over-consumption of xylitol can cause serious side effects such as diarrhea, stomach discomfort, oral eczema or even acute renal failure. Young children are more susceptible to over-consumption than children and adults above the age of 12.