Q: What is xylitol?
A: Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute. It is derived most commonly from birch trees or corn. It is increasingly used in candy, gum, toothpaste and mouthwash. Xylitol is sometimes called wood sugar or birch sugar. Unlike traditional sugars, which encourage growth of bacteria, Xylitol inhibits bacteria that decay teeth. Some studies have shown that xylitol can even help repair teeth by stimulating remineralization in teeth that have already been affected by decay, and that it can reduce plaque. Because xylitol is low in calories and is absorbed more slowly than sugar, it is safe for diabetics.
In 2005 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the product as a dental decay and periodontal disease preventive. The FDA recommends using xylitol two or three times a day so that the mouth and body are exposed to about 10 grams, chewing the gum or sucking on a candy for at least five minutes. Talk with your dentist about the potential benefits of xylitol in your diet.
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