Xylitol: much more than just a natural sugar substitute
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Xylitol is 5-carbon sugar which your body naturally produces some 15 grams of every day. As a natural sugar substitute found in vegetables and fruits, it has no equal, containing 75% fewer carbs and 40% fewer calories than white sugar. While these benefits are highly regarded by anyone looking to lose some weight, Xylitol is much more than just a pound shedder. This blog looks at some of the amazing ways that Xylitol benefits the human body. Balancing hormone and insulin levels By the reckoning of some experts, we are now consuming over 50 kg of sugar every year, or over 25 teaspoons per day. This equates literally to bags and bags of sugar, although we may not immediately recognize this because we are consuming it in sodas and other sources. These massive substance levels are having drastic and long-lasting effects on our bodies, and especially our hormone levels. Sugar has a glycemic index of 100, which can increase the risk of hormonal problems such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and other insulin resistant issues, eventually leading to type 2 diabetes. Xylitol, however, doesn’t work like this. Xylitol is absorbed slowly through the body and will not affect insulin levels, which makes it a great sugar substitute for diabetics. Also, unlike sugar, it is not addictive, and will not create highs and lows, or influence your mood. Finally, because Xylitol affects insulin stabilization, it keeps your body’s hormones balanced, which can increase the chances that you will age in a healthy way. Promoting healthy mouths across the world Xylitol, unlike sugar, has antimicrobial properties which can help fight bacterial infections in your mouth. Sugar actually promotes plaque growth, while Xylitol, which is far more alkaline, reduces that growth and stops plaque from developing in the first place. Studies done by the Harvard School of Dental Medicine have shown that “Xylitol can significantly decrease the incidence of dental caries,” while other studies show similar results. It is no wonder then that Xylitol is quickly gaining ground in toothpastes and as a candy. Not only does it have the same great taste of sugar, but it could potentially even repair damaged teeth. The benefits to overall health The benefits of Xylitol become readily apparent when we look at the health effects that are derived from it. For instance, Xylitol, much like fibre, helps the body properly digest food and create healthy bowel movements. And because it has anti-microbial properties, it keeps sinus and ear infections at bay. Lastly, Xylitol is the only sugar we know that does not feed yeast, which is hugely beneficial for any person suffering from Candida.
