Xylitol is a natural 5-carbon sugar that is very effective in reducing tooth decay. It is found naturally in fruits such as plums, berries, vegetables such as cauliflower, and mushrooms. Xylitol can also be obtained chemically from tree plants such as birch.

Although this substance has a sweet taste, unlike sugar, it does not turn into acids that provide space in the mouth for tooth decay. Xylitol, a natural sweetener, is approved by the FDA and ADA. It is as sweet as sucrose is, but has 33% fewer calories. Considering that, it is not only a good choice for diabetes, but also for the people who suffer from overweight.
The benefits of Xilytol and how to use it:
1. Prevention of Oral infection
Xylitol, in addition to controlling tooth decay, also neutralizes a specific kind of bacterial species which is a major cause of tooth decay and prevents oral infections.
2. Prevention of bad breath
Xylitol helps with bad breath. This is why xylitol-based chewing gums are prescribed to reduce bad breath and create a feeling of coolness and freshness.
3. It is Antibacterial
One of the main chemical properties of xylitol is its alkalinity. This increases the PH and decreases the acidity in the body, especially in the mouth. The alkaline nature of xylitol prevents the environment for bacteria to grow.
Weight Loss
Another effect of this amazing xylitol is that slows down the food digestion process and as a result, it takes more time for the stomach to be completely empty. This means that people who consume xylitol feel full for a longer period of time, just as same as fiber.
Boosting immunity system
Xylitol, with its antibacterial and antiviral properties, is a good suggestion for dealing with infections in different parts of the body such as the sinuses, mouth, throat and stomach.
Harmless Sugar for diabetes patients
Xylitol is a sugar that can be a good substitute for sucrose (which is present in regular sugar) in people with diabetes. This means that this substance has little effect on blood sugar and insulin, and people with diabetes can consume xylitol without seeing fluctuations in their blood sugar levels.
Xylitol Dosage and the way of Use
Today, in many developed countries, the use of sugar-free gums containing xylitol is recommended to prevent tooth decay in children and adults. A minimum intake of 10 grams of xylitol per day (which includes 4 to 7 pieces of gum containing xylitol) is necessary to prevent tooth decay.
It should not be forgotten that in order to prevent tooth decay, the number of times xylitol is consumed is more important than its amount. For this reason, in order to reduce the possibility of plaque formation and tooth decay, it is recommended to use products containing xylitol at least 4 to 6 times a day.