A few words on Xylitol

What is the Preferred Food Sweetener?

Xylitol is a sugar free food sweetener that was actually discovered around 1890 and has been used commercially as a food sweetener since the 1960’s. The preferred form comes from the bark of the birch tree. It is harvested in a sustainable manner that does no harm to the future growth of the tree. Xylitol may be extracted from other fruits or vegetables such as corn. At this writing our preference is the non – GMO source of birch xylitol.

This form of birch xylitol is non GMO, occurring naturally in the bark of the tree. Xylitol is also made in the human body in small amounts as part of the metabolic process. It has been proven to be of great benefit to diabetics in that it has a zero net carb effect on the body making it a very low glycemic sweetener. What makes xylitol different from other sugar alcohols is that it is a “pentosan” which is a polysaccharides consisting of five carbon pentose sugars while most other sugar alcohols consist of six carbon sugars. It is that extra carbon that may create dental and other health issues.

Considering the overall taste and versatility, the characteristic of xylitol are quite compelling:

1. 1 teaspoon (equal in taste to one teaspoon of sugar) only has 10 calories.
2. 1 teaspoon has 4 carbohydrates in the form of sugar alcohol, thus a net carb effect of zero.
3. There is basically no further food value to the product such as fats, cholesterol, proteins etc.
4. There is no aftertaste as found in some other sweeteners.
5. Contains no wheat, gluten, corn, soy or dairy products thus making it a vegan product.
6. Global research has linked it to healthy teeth and overall oral health.
7. The local brand we have settled on as a favorite is made in the USA. There are, however, other manufacturers worldwide that also provide good xylitol products.

A few things to watch when using xylitol. Over consumption may have a mild laxative effect. So be mindful of the amount you are consuming. Dogs should not consume xylitol heavy foods for they may cause hypoglemic effect in dogs which is not good. If you are a 100% raw foodist you must be aware that xylitol is not a raw product.