Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in many plants and fruits.
It is similar to table sugar and many people say it tastes
better than table sugar. Xylitol is produced in nature in small
amounts, but can be manufactured in large amounts from xylose.
Xylitol was approved for use as a food additive by the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1963.
In addition to its advantages of being a natural sweetener and
lower in calories than table sugar (40% lower), Xylitol provides
significant health benefits. It has been shown in many clinical
studies to prevent dental caries (cavities) and even stops or
reverses tooth decay. There is also evidence that xylitol is
effective in preventing or reducing ear and sinus infections.
Because Xylitol is metabolized very slowly and does not raise
insulin levels, its use reduces many health problems associated
with high-sugar intake. Diabetics can safely use xylitol as a
sweetener.
Most bacteria, including Streptococcus Mutans germs that live in
the mouth and cause cavities depend on sugars with six carbon
atoms such as glucose and fructose for their energy source.
Xylitol has a five carbon sugar structure that is not easily
accepted or digested by these bacteria and significantly slows
their growth. Regular use of Xylitol reduces the oral levels of
Streptococcus Mutans.
As Spiffies contain xylitol, please check with your vet
before using Spiffies for your pets."
Clinical studies conducted over the last 30 years have proven
that Xylitol prevents tooth decay and plaque formation. For
example, in studies of children who chewed gum daily containing
Xylitol, compared to those who did not, cavities not only did
not increase, but levels were actually reduced over time of the
study. Check the website and references listed below for more
information on clinical studies and results.
Xylitol was developed commercially in Finland in response to
sugar shortages in WWll. Finland was among the first countries
to study the health benefits of Xylitol and make it available in
chewing gum. Currently, more than 35 countries have approved the
use of Xylitol in foods, pharmaceutical and oral hygiene
products. While Xylitol has been up to 20 times more expensive
than sugar and other sweeteners, increased demand is bringing
down the price and also making it more readily available.
For more information about Xylitol,
check out this website:
www.caloriecontrol.org
