Xylitol Reference Guide

Online Xylitol Reference Guide

Primarily produced in China, but used throughout the world, Xylitol is a white crystalline sugar substitute that looks and tastes just like the real thing. Also known as wood and/or birch sugar, Xylitol is technically a five-carbon sugar alcohol that is usually extracted from natural fruits and vegetables such as birch, raspberries, plums, and corn.

Usually classified as a carbohydrate that is absorbed by the body slowly, Xylitol has been used as a food additive since the 1960’s and is considered to have lower calorie properties than typical sugar products. It is a popular sweetener for diabetics and has obtained the blessing of United States FDA as a food additive in unlimited quantity for foods with special dietary purposes. Xylitol is often used as a sweetener in sugar fee chewing gum and has been hailed by national dental associations as the best sweetener for healthy teeth.

Xylitol can be used to replace sugar in any recipe for a healthier sugar-free diet. Studies using Xylitol as a sugar substitute or dietary addition have demonstrated a dramatic reduction in new tooth decay, along with reversal of existing dental issues. Of course, none of the negative effects of sugar, often called America’s “white poison,” are experienced with Xylitol because it is all natural. In fact our bodies produce Xylitol from numerous sources as a normal part of everyday metabolism.

Xylitol is an ideal sugar substitute for people who suffer from diabetes, due to a low glycemic index of 7 and the fact that it is metabolized without using insulin. Unlike other sweeteners, Xylitol is completely natural, great tasting and contains 40% less calories than sugar. Xylitol is metabolized slowly, so it results in a steady release of energy without any highs/lows. Xylitol has the same sweetness as sugar so it easily becomes a good replacement.