PRODUCTS

XYLITOL

Xylitol also has many dental benefits, which is why your dental professionals are talking about it.
You may use xylitol to help prevent tooth decay because it helps prevent harmful mouth bacteria.
Try using xylitol to support gut health since it acts as a prebiotic that helpful gut bacteria feed on.

CAS Number: 87-99-0
EC (EINECS) Number: 201-788-0
E number: E967 (glazing agents, ...)
Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₂O₅
Molecular Weight: 152.15 g/mol

SYNONYMS:
meso-Xylitol, (2R,3R,4S)-Pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentol, (2R,3R,4S)-Pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentaol, (2R,3R,4S)-1,2,3,4,5-Pentahydroxypentane, Xylite, Xylitol, (2R,3R,4S)-Pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentaol, (2R,3r,4S)-pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentol, C-xylidex cr 16055, CHEBI:17151, D-Xylitol, DTXCID60209830, DTXSID7042514, E-967, Fluorette, Hoo gargle (Mouthwash), INS NO.967, INS-967, Kylit, NSC-25283, Noble 1 Plus, Noble G Plus, PurpleToothpaste, RefChem:56230, Xylitab 300, Xylitol cm 90, Xylitol, d-, Xylo-pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentol, Xylo-pentitol, meso-Xylitol, 201-788-0, 87-99-0, Eutrit, Kannit, Klinit, Torch, VCQ006KQ1E, Xylite, Xylite (sugar), Xyliton, Purple Toothpaste, Newtol, Xylitol, D-Xylitol, 1,2,3,4,5-Pentahydroxypentane, Pentitol, Xylite, Xylit, Birch sugar, Wood sugar, E 967 (when used as food additive), Xylitol powder, Xylitol crystals, sugar alcohol sweetener

Xylitol is a natural substance found in the fibres of a number of fruit and vegetables and can also be made in small amounts by the body.
While it can be sourced from carbohydrate molecules (called polysaccharides) in the cell walls of birch and beech trees, rice, oat, wheat and cotton husks, the main source of xylitol for commercial use is from corn cobs.

Once extracted and processed, you are left with a white, crystalline powder that looks a little like sugar.
Xylitol has the same sweetness as sugar and has become a popular sweetener in food and health products.
Xylitol is a naturally occurring compound found in many fruits, vegetables and grains.

Because of its sweet taste, Xylitol can be used as a sugar substitute in chewing gum, mints and candies.
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol, which is a type of carbohydrate and does not actually contain alcohol.
Xylitol occurs naturally in small amounts in fibrous fruits and vegetables, trees, corncobs, and even the human body.

Xylitol is a sugar.
Better than that, Xylitol is a sugar that is actually good for you!
Wait, what?

Xylitol is a naturally occurring carbohydrate found in things like corn cobs, woody fibrous plants, fruits and vegetables, and is even produced in the human body.
Pure xylitol is a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes just like sugar.

Xylitol (1,2,3,4,5-pentol) is a sugar alcohol naturally found in plums, raspberries, and strawberries.
Xylitol was first isolated from the bark of beech trees in 1890.
Today, xylitol is widely recognized as a low-calorie sweetener and has been approved for use in more than 35 countries, including the United States.

Xylitol is a naturally occurring five-carbon sugar alcohol found in most plant material, including many fruits and vegetables.
Xylitol-rich plant materials include birch and beechwood.
The effects of xylitol on dental caries have been widely studied, and xylitol is added to some chewing gums and other oral care products to prevent tooth decay and dry mouth.

Xylitol is a non-fermentable sugar alcohol by most plaque bacteria, indicating that it cannot be fermented into cariogenic acid end-products.
Xylitol is a natural sweetener, with protective, saliva-producing and moisturizing activities.
Upon administration, xylitol produces saliva and may protect against cavities.

This relieves persistent dry mouth and hydrates the mouth.
Xylitol is a metabolite found in or produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Xylitol is a five-carbon sugar alcohol derived from XYLOSE by reduction of the carbonyl group.

Xylitol is as sweet as sucrose and used as a noncariogenic sweetener.
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in plants, including many fruits and vegetables.
Xylitol has a sweet taste and is often used as a sugar substitute.

Xylitol tastes sweet but, unlike sugar, it doesn't cause tooth decay.
Xylitol reduces levels of decay-causing bacteria in saliva and also acts against some bacteria that cause ear infections.

A naturally occurring sugar alcohol found (in trace amounts) in many fruits and vegetables, xylitol can be processed from certain trees or from a plant fiber called xylan.
Xylitol tastes about as sweet as regular sugar, but with only about half the calories per serving.
Store-bought xylitol is a white, crystalline powder that can be used as a one-to-one replacement for sugar in recipes.

USES and APPLICATIONS of XYLITOL:
Xylitol can be found in oral care products, pharmaceuticals, and as a food additive.
Product examples include sugar-free gum, candies, breath mints, baked goods, peanut butter, pudding snacks, and cough syrup; chewable or gummy vitamins, supplements or over-the-counter medications; mouthwash, and toothpaste.

Xylitol can also be found in some over-the-counter nasal sprays, skin care products, laxatives, digestive aids, allergy medicines, dry mouth lozenges, and sleep supplements.
Xylitol is also found in prescription human medications, especially those formulated as quick-dissolve tablets or liquids.

Xylitol is in a class of sweeteners known as sugar alcohols.
Replacing sugar with xylitol in food products may promote better dental health.
Literature documents use of xylitol for various therapeutic applications, including acute otitis media, dental caries, restoration of bowel motility after surgery, and osteoporosis.

Manufacturers use xylitol as a sugar substitute because its sweetness is comparable with that of table sugar but with fewer calories.
Xylitol is a common ingredient in many products, from sugar-free chewing gum to toothpaste.
People also use xylitol as a table-top sweetener and in baking.

Xylitol is commonly used in gums, lozenges, and sugar-free sweets.
Despite offering an equivalent sweetness to sucrose (sugar), xylitol does not significantly affect blood glucose levels.
As a non-glycemic sweetener, meaning it will not raise your blood sugars, xylitol is a good choice for many people with diabetes.

Xylitol can also help prevent tooth decay.
Among its many health benefits, Xylitol is a great alternative for people with diabetes; it helps people who suffer from nasal congestion lubricate their sinuses; and it has fewer calories than regular sugar.

Xylitol is widely used as a sugar substitute and in "sugar-free" food products.
Xylitol works by inhibiting the growth of the microorganisms present in plaque and saliva after it accumulates intracellularly into the microorganism.

The recommended dose of xylitol for dental caries prevention is 6–10 g/day, and most adults can tolerate 40 g/day without adverse events.
Xylitol's widely used in "sugar-free" chewing gums, mints, and other candies.

-Xylitol does Not Promote Tooth Decay
Xylitol is best known for protecting against dental caries (cavities).
Numerous studies have shown its effectiveness in cavity prevention.

Besides sugar-free candies and desserts, xylitol can also be found in gums, mouthwashes, and toothpastes.
One research review found that a fluoride toothpaste with 10% xylitol may reduce cavities by up to 13% compared to a fluoride-only toothpaste.
Though xylitol is similar in sweetness to sugar, it does not have the same corrosive effects sugar has on the teeth.

Xylitol has been shown to stimulate salivation, which helps remove food deposits from the teeth.
Xylitol may also prevent cavities by reducing the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, a known promoter of tooth decay, as well as neutralizing some of the acidity in your mouth.

-Xylitol may Protect Gut Health
Xylitol may act as a prebiotic—a substance that promotes gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria in the gut.
The body doesn't fully digest xylitol, so much of the sugar alcohol remains solid in the colon, where it feeds good bacteria, keeping the gut microbiome healthy and thriving.

In certain doses, xylitol may also have a laxative effect, which can help relieve constipation.
Xylitol may also help produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the gut, which provide energy and support for your immune system and reduce your risk for colon cancer.

-Uses of Xylitol:
Xylitol has a similar level of sweetness to sugar but with a fraction of the calories.
Xylitol is a popular ingredient in a variety of products, including sugar-free gum and toothpaste.

Manufacturers add xylitol to a range of foods, including:
*sugar-free candies, such as gum, mints, and gummies
*jams and jellies
*honey
*nut butters, including peanut butter
*yogurt

Xylitol is also an ingredient in some dental care products, including:
*toothpaste
*mouthwash
*other fluoride products

-Xylitol boosts dental health
Many dentists recommend using xylitol-sweetened chewing gum — and for good reason.
Studies have determined that xylitol boosts dental health and helps prevent tooth decay.
One of the leading risk factors for tooth decay is an oral bacteria called Streptococcus mutans.

This is the bacteria most responsible for plaque.
Although some plaque on your teeth is normal, excess plaque encourages your immune system to attack the bacteria in it.
This can lead to inflammatory gum diseases like gingivitis.

These oral bacteria feed on glucose from food, but they cannot use xylitol.
As such, replacing sugar with xylitol reduces the available fuel for the harmful bacteria.
While these bacteria cannot use xylitol for fuel, they still ingest it.

After absorbing xylitol, they are unable to take up glucose — meaning that their energy-producing pathway is clogged and they end up dying.
In other words, when you chew gum with xylitol or use it as a sweetener, the harmful bacteria in your mouth starve to death.

In one study, xylitol-sweetened chewing gum reduced levels of bad bacteria by 27–75%, while friendly bacteria levels remained constant.
Because inflammation is at the root of many chronic diseases, reducing plaque and gum inflammation could have benefits for the rest of your body as well.

XYLITOL AT A GLANCE:
*A sugar that may be plant-derived or lab-made
*Has prebiotic ability that helps skin stay healthy
*Attracts and binds moisture without a greasy feel
*Approved for use in foods and is safe for skin

XYLITOL DENTAL BENEFITS:
Xylitol dental benefits on oral health have been recognized by The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) to include a significant reduction in tooth decay, as well as contributing to the reversal of cavity formation.

HOW XYLITOL KEEPS TEETH HEALTHY:
Dental cavities occur when natural bacteria present in the mouth feed on the sugars we eat which remain on the teeth.
These bacteria multiply and produce acids that attack the teeth and form cavities, or decay.

The bacteria are unable to feed on xylitol and are essentially starved and cannot grow.
Studies show that xylitol dental benefits include effectively decreasing acid-producing bacteria by up to 90%.

Xylitol also keeps the bacteria from adhering to teeth which decreases plaque.
Because xylitol does not break down as sugar does, the pH level in the saliva is raised and acid does not form.
In addition, xylitol can stimulate saliva production which is beneficial in repairing damaged enamel and remineralizing teeth.

Saliva containing xylitol has a higher concentration of ammonia and amino acids which raise pH levels resulting in the hardening of tooth enamel.
Xylitol use has been found to significantly reduce tooth decay in both high and low risk groups concerning cavity occurrence.

THE BENEFITS OF XYLITOL ON ORAL HEALTH
Xylitol dental benefits on oral health The benefits of xylitol on oral health are due to the inability to break down xylitol, a natural sweetener derived from plants, into simple sugars that feed bacteria.
Xylitol is a 5-carbon sugar alcohol substance found in certain plants, fruits, vegetables, and other natural sources.

Research shows that xylitol has many health benefits, including dramatically reducing tooth decay, however, the amount of xylitol contained in many foods is inadequate to produce a positive impact on dental health.
Therefore, using products containing 100% xylitol or using xylitol as a sugar substitute is recommended to attain its oral health benefits.
Eating healthy prevents tooth decay.

USES & EFFECTIVENESS of XYLITOL:
***Xylitol is likely Effective for
Cavities.
Using xylitol-containing products in the mouth, such as chewing gum, candies, and toothpaste, reduces the risk for cavities in adults and children 5 years and older.
It's unclear if it helps prevent cavities in children younger than 5 years old.

***Xylitol is possibly Effective for
Ear infection (otitis media).
Giving xylitol-containing products such as a chewing gum, lozenges, or syrups daily after meals to preschool children seems to reduce the risk for ear infections.
But giving xylitol right after a respiratory infection has started doesn't seem to prevent ear infections.
There is interest in using xylitol for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

USES, PROPERTIES & BENEFITS of XYLITOL:
Xylitol is a versatile substance with many applications and beneficial properties:

*Sugar substitute / sweetener (low-calorie):
Xylitol tastes similar to sucrose (≈ equal sweetness), but provides fewer calories per gram (often ~ 40 % less), making it useful in sugar-free or reduced-calorie foods and drinks.

*Dental health benefit (non-cariogenic):
Because xylitol is not fermentable by many oral bacteria that cause tooth decay, regular use (e.g. in chewing gum, lozenges) may reduce risk of dental cavities, help reduce plaque formation, and support oral hygiene.

*Cooling effect (negative heat of solution):
When dissolved in saliva or water, xylitol exhibits a mild cooling sensation — a property valued in confectioneries, chewing gum, mint candies, and oral-care products.

*Food additive / humectant / stabilizer:
Because it dissolves well and is stable, xylitol is used in food, confectionery, chewing gum, throat lozenges, chocolates, as well as in pharmaceutical syrups, tablets, and other formulations.

*Low glycemic response:
Xylitol has a lower impact on blood glucose compared to sugar, making it suitable for sugar-reduced and diabetic-friendly products / diets.

*Humectant & moisture retention:
In cosmetic or personal-care formulations, xylitol can act as a humectant (moisture-retaining agent), useful in lotions, creams, oral-care products.

*Stability & safety:
As a stable, non-volatile, non-toxic (in normal doses) sugar alcohol, xylitol is widely regarded as safe for human consumption and use in foods, pharmaceuticals, oral-care products, and more.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS of XYLITOL:
Xylitol has several potential health benefits, including:

*Low glycemic index
Xylitol has a low glycemic index (GI).
This means that consuming it does not cause spikes in blood glucose or insulin levels in the body.
For this reason, xylitol is a good sugar substitute for people with diabetes.
Due to its low GI, xylitol is also a weight loss-friendly sugar substitute.

*Dental health
Xylitol is an ingredient in many dental hygiene products, including toothpaste and mouthwash.
This is due to the fact that xylitol is non-fermentable, which means that the bacteria in the mouth cannot convert it into the harmful acid that causes tooth decay.

The oral bacterium Streptococcus mutans is largely responsible for plaque, which is the sticky, white substance that can accumulate on the outside of a person’s teeth.
Plaque binds lactic acid against the surface of the tooth.

This acid breaks down the enamel and leads to tooth decay.
While it is normal for people to have some plaque on their teeth, excess amounts can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.

A 2017 systematic review suggests that xylitol reduces the amount of S. mutans bacteria in the mouth, which reduces the amount of plaque and may help prevent tooth decay.
A 2014 study examined the effects of xylitol on Porphyromonas gingivalis, which is the bacterium responsible for gingivitis, or gum disease.

If left untreated, excess amounts of P. gingivalis can move into the bloodstream and lead to systemic inflammation.
In the study, scientists grew samples of P. gingivalis in a laboratory and added them to human cell cultures pretreated with xylitol.
They saw that xylitol increased the production of immune system proteins and inhibited the growth of the bacteria.

OTHER XYLITOL DENTAL BENEFITS:
100% natural
Safe and effective
Convenient to use (with products such as chewing gum and candies)
Xylitol does not raise blood sugar (as sugar can)

Xylitol replaces other less healthy sweeteners
40% less calories and 75% fewer carbohydrates than sugar
Xylitol inhibits bacterial growth in upper respiratory passages (xylitol nasal wash)

Xylitol can reduce ear infections (8 grams orally per day)
Xylitol can be used by diabetics (upon physician approval)
Easy to use in recipes (replace sugar with equal amount of xylitol)

Delicious flavor with no unpleasant aftertaste
No adverse reaction (xylitol and the enzymes that break it down are naturally present in the body)
Helps with the prevention of gum disease

XYLITOL-CONTAINING PRODUCTS:
The most commonly used products containing xylitol are sugar-free chewing gum and candies (such as mints, caramels, and chocolates) which have both been endorsed by six national dental associations.

Other xylitol-containing products available are:
*Toothpaste
*Dental floss
*Mouth spray or wash
*Nasal spray

Xylitol is available as a natural bulk sweetener, as well.
When purchasing xylitol, look for products containing 100% xylitol without high levels of acid, which negates its dental benefits.
If the main sweetener is listed as HSH, the xylitol content is typically low and ineffectual.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF XYLITOL?
Eating too much sugar has been linked to a host of serious health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and tooth decay, so sugar-free sweeteners like xylitol are a compelling alternative.

-Xylitol is lower in calories and carbohydrates than sugar
Xylitol is an excellent alternative to sugar for people who need to watch their weight, their blood sugar levels, or both.
The sugar alcohol contains about 2.4 calories per gram (compared with 4 calories per gram in regular sugar).
That makes Xylitol a good option for those who want to limit their simple carbohydrate intake, like people with diabetes or related metabolic syndromes.

-Xylitol doesn't cause blood sugar spikes
When measured on the glycemic index (GI), a measure of how quickly food raises blood sugar, xylitol's GI score is 7, while regular sugar has a GI score of about 60.
Xylitol's lower GI score correlates to more sustained energy without the spike and plunge associated with a sudden intake of regular sugar.

-Xylitol is good for your dental health
Xylitol may help prevent tooth decay by reducing levels of bad bacteria in your mouth.
According to a review published in the Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry, consuming 5 to 10 grams per day of xylitol-containing products (like lozenges, candies, chewing gum, toothpaste, or mouth rinse) significantly prevented cavities and tooth decay compared with products that do not contain xylitol.
So don't be surprised if your dentist recommends a xylitol-containing chewing gum at your next checkup.

XYLITOL IN EVERYDAY PRODUCTS:
Many sugar-free products contain xylitol, including sugar-free candy, gum, baked goods, mints, cough syrup, chewable vitamins, some nut butters, ice cream, and oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash.
You can also buy xylitol in bulk at most grocery stores or online retailers to use in cooking and baking.

Xylitol has a very low glycemic index and doesn’t spike blood sugar or insulin
One of the negative effects of added sugar — and high-fructose corn syrup — is that Xylitol can spike blood sugar and insulin levels.
Due to its high levels of fructose, Xylitol can also lead to insulin resistance and multiple metabolic problems when consumed in excess.

However, xylitol contains zero fructose and has negligible effects on blood sugar and insulin.
Therefore, none of the harmful effects of sugar apply to xylitol.
Xylitol’s glycemic index (GI) — a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar — is only 7, whereas regular sugar’s is 60–70.

Xylitol can also be considered a weight-loss-friendly sweetener since it contains 40% fewer calories than sugar.
For people with diabetes, prediabetes, obesity or other metabolic problems, xylitol is an excellent alternative to sugar.

While corresponding human studies are currently unavailable, rat studies show that xylitol can improve symptoms of diabetes, reduce belly fat and even prevent weight gain on a fattening diet.

HOW CAN XYLITOL BE USED?
Xylitol is frequently found in chewing gum and mouth-freshening mints and can be used in place of sugar in many bakes, just be aware cakes sweetened with xylitol don't tend to colour much, so perhaps stick to using it in coffee or chocolate cakes.
Xylitol’s crystal appearance makes it an easy swap for sugar when sweetening hot drinks, like tea and coffee.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE OF XYLITOL:
Xylitol has a low glycaemic index (GI) value of 12, meaning it has little effect on blood sugar levels and insulin.
Xylitol is therefore seen as a useful sugar alternative for diabetics.
Xylitol contains only 2.4 calories per gram and is slowly absorbed.
Xylitol is partly digested by the liver and then travels to the intestinal tract, where it is broken down further.

IS XYLITOL GOOD FOR ME?
With its low GI, xylitol is broken down slowly, which means it doesn’t cause a spike in blood sugar or insulin levels and may be helpful in reducing sugar cravings.
One of the main health claims for xylitol is its benefits for dental health.
We know that diet plays a major role in dental health and that too much sugar causes tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Xylitol can help to prevent this by raising the pH of the oral cavity so it inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause cavities.

WHAT FOODS CONTAIN XYLITOL?
Xylitol naturally occurs in foods such as raspberries, mushrooms, corn and oats.
But the low levels of xylitol occurring naturally in foods aren't sufficient to see cavity-fighting effects.
It takes about 20 grams of xylitol a day to prevent decay — significantly more than the small amount naturally occurring in fruits, vegetables and grains.
When used as an additive, xylitol is typically extracted from birch trees or corn.

As an additive, xylitol is found most often in chewing gum and mints.
Similar in sweetness and volume to sugar, the granular form of xylitol can be used in many of the same ways as sugar, including to sweeten cereals, jams and hot beverages.
Xylitol can even substitute sugar in baking, except when sugar is needed to help yeast rise.

Check the ingredients to see if a product contains xylitol.
Generally, for the amount of xylitol to be at decay-preventing levels, it must be listed as the first ingredient.
If you can't find any xylitol-based products in your local grocery store, head to the nearest specialty health food store, or shop online.

OTHER POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS of XYLITOL:
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, found in large amounts in skin and connective tissues.
Keep in mind that studies in people are needed to confirm these benefits.
Xylitol also feeds the friendly bacteria in your gut, acting as a soluble fiber and improving your digestive health.

HOW DOES XYLITOL WORK?
Unlike sugar, xylitol doesn't encourage cavity-causing bacteria to produce acid.
In fact, Xylitol's molecular structure may actually inhibit the growth of these harmful bacteria.
This helps you maintain a neutral pH, keeping the outer layer of your teeth intact.

HIGHLIGHTS of XYLITOL:
Xylitol is a type of carbohydrate called a sugar alcohol, or polyol.
Xylitol occurs naturally in many fruits and vegetables.
Xylitol is also commercially produced from birch bark and corn cob for use as a sweetener.

Xylitol is a common ingredient in sugar-free chewing gum.
Xylitol safety is confirmed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization.
Xylitol is known to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria (mutans streptococci) in plaque and saliva.

THE BASICS OF XYLITOL:
Xylitol (pronounced Zy-Li-Tall) is a type of carbohydrate called a sugar alcohol, or polyol.
They are water-soluble compounds that occur naturally in many fruits and vegetables.
Xylitol is also commercially produced from birch bark and corn cob for use as a sweetener to replace calories from carbohydrates and sugars.
Xylitol has been approved for use in food by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1963.

The name Xylitol comes from the word “xylose” or “wood sugar” because it was first made from birch trees.
Xylitol has a cooling sensation in the mouth when consumed.
As a result, xylitol is a preferred ingredient in sugar-free chewing gum and other oral health products like breath mints, mouthwash and toothpaste.

XYLITOL AND HEALTH:
Xylitol has a chemical structure similar to sugar, but has fewer calories; while sugar has about 4 calories per gram, xylitol has just 2.4.
Although it’s lower in calories, xylitol is equal to the sweetness of sugar.
This makes xylitol unique because most sugar alcohols are not as sweet as sugar.

Xylitol is known to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria (mutans streptococci) in plaque and saliva.
The act of chewing gum promotes the flow of saliva, which naturally protects teeth from cavity-causing bacteria.
Based on a large amount of scientific evidence both the American Dental Association and the FDA have recognized xylitol as beneficial to oral health.

Other health benefits of xylitol stem from its differences in chemical structure compared to sugar.
Unlike sugar, xylitol is slowly and incompletely absorbed in the small intestine.
This makes Xylitol and other sugar alcohols helpful for people with diabetes.
Once absorbed, Xylitol can be used for energy while using little or no insulin, which means the impact on blood sugar is minimal.

Bacteria in the large intestine ferment any unabsorbed xylitol that passes through the small intestine.
Because of this, overconsumption can produce abdominal gas and discomfort.
For those following a low Fermentable Oligosaccharides Disaccharides Monosaccharides And Polyols (FODMAP) diet, food sources of xylitol are monitored because xylitol is a type of polyol.

RECOMMENDED INTAKES of XYLITOL:
There are few formal recommendations for xylitol intake.
Digestive response to xylitol consumption can vary widely in adults so there is no minimum or maximum amount recommended, although 20 to 70 grams per day has been suggested to be well-tolerated.

Related to oral health, some studies suggest the need for at least five to six grams and three exposures per day from chewing gum or candies.
A recent review suggests that the effectiveness of xylitol on the prevention of dental caries in children is uncertain, but that doses of more than 4 grams per day have a greater effect.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) “supports the use of xylitol and other sugar alcohols as non-cariogenic sugar substitutes” but acknowledges inconsistent evidence showing significant reductions in dental caries in children.

FOOD SOURCES OF XYLITOL:
Xylitol is found naturally in fruits and vegetables like strawberries, raspberries, mushrooms and cauliflower.
Xylitol’s also found in other plants and agricultural materials like birch bark and corn husks, which are the sources of commercially made xylitol that are added to chewable multivitamins, gum drops, hard candies, sugar-free chewing gum and pharmaceuticals.
Xylitol is also found in oral health products such as breath mints, throat lozenges and cough syrups.

HOW DOES XYLITOL COMPARE TO SUGAR?
Xylitol differs from table sugar in these key ways:

*Xylitol contains fewer calories.
Xylitol contains about 40% fewer calories than sugar.
A gram of table sugar contains 4 calories, while the same amount of xylitol contains only 2.4 calories.

*Xylitol has a low glycemic index.
Glycemic index is the measure of how quickly food raises blood pressure.
With a glycemic index about 10 times lower than sugar, xylitol can be a safe alternative to sugar if you have diabetes.

*Xylitol doesn't cause tooth decay.
While sugar promotes tooth decay by feeding cavity-causing bacteria, xylitol appears to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans.

HOW TO USE XYLITOL:
At one time, the recommendation of Xylitol was to consume 6-10 grams per day.
Now, most health care professionals agree that frequency of xylitol use is more beneficial than the quantity consumed.

Patients who adhere to a “Strive for Five” regimen will intake more than enough xylitol to effectively prevent dental cavities, and frequent exposure to xylitol will stimulate saliva and replace the sugars and carbohydrates in the mouth throughout the day.
Keeping xylitol in contact with the teeth as frequently as possible will help obtain the optimum dental benefits it can provide.

A suggested method for achieving 5 exposures of xylitol per day is:
*Xylitol toothpaste or mouthwash use in the morning.
*Xylitol gum or candy after breakfast.
*Xylitol gum or candy after lunch.
*Xylitol gum or candy after dinner.
*Xylitol dental floss, toothpaste, or mouthwash before bed.

Candy or gum should be chewed or sucked on for at least 2-3 minutes in order to be effective.
If you eat snacks throughout the day, adding a xylitol mint or chewing xylitol gum after consumption will give additional dental benefits.
Consuming xylitol only occasionally has not shown to provide significant oral health benefits.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of XYLITOL:
Chemical formula: C5H12O5
Molar mass: 152.146 g/mol
Density: 1.52 g/cm3
Melting point: 92 to 96 °C (198 to 205 °F; 365 to 369 K)
Boiling point: 345.39 °C (653.70 °F; 618.54 K) (predicted value using Adapted Stein & Brown method)
Solubility in water: Approximately 100 g/L
Physical form: White (or almost white) crystalline powder or granules / crystals.
Taste / Odor: Sweet taste (similar to sucrose), odorless.

Melting point: ~ 94–97 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: ~ 215–217 °C (some sources note ~ 494–495 °C under special conditions)
Density (solid): ~ 1.515–1.52 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Solubility in water: Highly soluble — xylitol dissolves readily in water; water-soluble sugar alcohol.
Solubility in other solvents: Slight solubility in ethanol and methanol (much less soluble than in water)
Partition coefficient (logP / octanol-water): Negative (hydrophilic), reported around –2.56 at 22 °C.
Vapor pressure: Very low (low volatility) — xylitol is non-volatile under normal conditions.

Hygroscopicity / Stability: Relatively stable solid, but may be hygroscopic (tends to absorb moisture) — storage in dry, sealed containers is recommended for long-term stability
Appearance: Xylitol is a white crystalline powder or colorless solid.
Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₂O₅
Molecular Weight: 152.17 g/mol
Melting Point: 92-96°C (approximately)
Boiling Point: Does not have a definitive boiling point due to decomposition before boiling.

Solubility: Soluble in water.
Slightly soluble in ethanol.
Insoluble in chloroform and ether.
Density: 1.52 g/cm³ (at 25°C)
Taste: Xylitol is sweet, about as sweet as sucrose (table sugar).
Crystal Structure: Xylitol has a monoclinic crystal structure.

Optical Activity: Xylitol is optically active.
It has a specific rotation of about +10.5°.
Chemical Properties: Chemical Class: Xylitol is a sugar alcohol, or polyol, which is derived from xylose, a natural sugar found in plants.
Reaction with Acid: Xylitol is stable under acidic conditions and does not undergo hydrolysis like other sugars.
Dehydration: When heated under anhydrous conditions, Xylitol can undergo dehydration to form furan derivatives.
Fermentation: Xylitol is non-fermentable by most types of yeast, making it useful as a sugar substitute for individuals with certain health conditions (e.g., diabetes).

Reactivity: Xylitol does not undergo the Maillard reaction (a chemical reaction between sugars and amino acids, which causes browning in food), making it stable for use in food products that require high heat.
Non-Glycemic: Xylitol has a low glycemic index (around 7), which means it does not cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels, unlike regular sugar.
Hydrogenation: Xylitol is produced commercially by the hydrogenation of xylose, a process that adds hydrogen to the molecule, converting the aldehyde group to a hydroxyl group.
Stability: Xylitol is stable at room temperature, and its stability is enhanced when stored in dry conditions, avoiding moisture or humidity.

Reactivity with Other Compounds: Xylitol does not react with common food preservatives or additives and is often used in combination with other sweeteners for improved stability and flavor in food products.
Other Properties: Hygroscopicity: Xylitol is slightly hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air.
Caloric Value: Xylitol has 2.4 kcal/g, which is lower than the calorie content of sucrose (4 kcal/g).
Health Benefits: Xylitol is often used as a sugar substitute in chewing gum and dental products due to its tooth-friendly properties, reducing the risk of cavities and promoting oral health.
Sweetness Level: It is about as sweet as sucrose, making it an effective sugar substitute in various food products.

Appearance: White crystalline solid
Taste: Sweet (similar sweetness to sucrose)
Odor: Odorless
Molar mass: 152.15 g/mol
Melting point: ~92–96 °C
Boiling point: Decomposes before boiling
Density: ~1.52 g/cm³

Solubility in water: Highly soluble (≈ 1,690 g/L at 25 °C)
Solubility in alcohol: Moderately soluble
Hygroscopicity: Slightly hygroscopic
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong oxidizers
Taste profile: Cool, refreshing mouthfeel (endothermic dissolution)
Chemical formula: C₅H₁₂O₅
Chemical class: Sugar alcohol (polyol)
Structure: Linear pentitol

Functional groups: Five hydroxyl (–OH) groups
Chirality: Exists as multiple stereoisomers; common form is (2R,3R,4S)-xylitol
Reactivity:
Can undergo oxidation to form xylulose or xylose
Stable at neutral pH
Non-reducing (does not readily participate in Maillard browning)
Glycemic index: Very low (GI ≈ 7)
Energy value: 2.4 kcal/g (40% fewer calories than sucrose)

FIRST AID MEASURES of XYLITOL:
-Description of first-aid measures:
*If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
*In case of eye contact:
Flush eyes with water as a precaution.
*If swallowed:
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Rinse mouth with water.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed:
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of XYLITOL:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of XYLITOL:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
-Further information:
No data available

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of XYLITOL:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
*Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Wash and dry hands.
*Body Protection:
Impervious clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Respiratory protection not required.
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of XYLITOL:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Store in cool place.
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of XYLITOL:
-Reactivity:
No data available
-Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
-Conditions to avoid:
No data available