Xylitol: Tooth Friendly Sweetener is Healthy Too!

Xylitol is a natural substance derived from the "xylan" (a yellow, gummy substance abundantly present in plant cell walls and woody tissue) of birch and other hardwood trees, berries, almond hulls and corncobs. The good news is that this "tooth friendly" sweetener has a wide variety of health benefits as well! Here's just a few examples:

• Prevents and reduces tooth decay.
• Aids in fighting inner ear and lung infections.
• Fights Osteoporosis by increasing bone volume and bone minerals.
• Improves your skin by increasing collagen production.
• Does not increase insulin production in Diabetics.
• Fights Candida Albicans (yeast).
• Aids in the treatment of Pneumonia.

After more than 1,500 scientific studies by the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Xylitol has been deemed the safer sweetener. Results of the study revealed that Xylitol stopped sugar cravings, reduced insulin levels, and alkalinized the body.

Surprised? Simply finding a healthy alternative to sugar is quite an accomplishment. But the hidden prize is Xylitol's ability to actually fight bacteria. So chewing Xylitol gum on a regular basis prevents tooth decay not only because it eliminates sugar, but because it actually reduces the growth of bacteria associated with dental caries.

Things you should know about Xylitol for reducing tooth decay:

• Xylitol does not replace brushing or flossing.
• The body can only process a small amount of Xylitol at a time.
• Xylitol gum should be chewed immediately after a meal or snack. 
• Xylitol needs to be used daily on an ongoing basis and used at separate intervals throughout the day.
• Research has shown that the use of xylitol gum or mints also helps correct damage to the enamel when in the initial stages.