5 health benefits of xylitol that you must know

As a substitute for sugar, xylitol is actually beneficial for your health, you know. The sweetener you usually find in chewing gum has a low glycemic index (GI) and 33% fewer calories than sucrose. Without further ado, here are the various benefits of xylitol that you can get under normal use.

Xylitol for health benefits

Xylitol is a natural carbohydrate that comes from the extraction of wood-fibrous trees and plants, such as Birch. Apart from being used in chewing gum, you can also find xylitol in various types of fruits and vegetables, for example prunes and cauliflower.

Besides being sweet, this natural sweetener provides a cold sensation in the mouth when you consume it and does not leave the nausea that is often felt when eating sugar.

Then, what are the benefits of xylitol for health?

1. Low glycemic index

Unlike sugar and fructose syrup which can increase blood sugar quickly, xylitol can be a substitute sweetener, especially for people with diabetes. This is because these natural carbohydrates contain a GI of 7, which is included in the low GI category.

In addition, these chemically processed sweeteners prevent the body from breaking down carbohydrates into sugar and circulating them to the bloodstream. Therefore, people with diabetes can eat foods normally without fear of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

2. Good for dental health

Apart from being beneficial for people with diabetes, xylitol is also good for the health of your teeth and mouth.

A study from the University of Connecticut US shows that Streptococcus mutans, bacteria which often cause plaque on teeth, can be neutralized with xylitol. This can reduce plaque, caries and cavities in the teeth.

In addition, other studies reveal that xylitol also affects the health of your gums, especially the bacteria that cause gingivitis Porphyromonas gingivalis. If the problem caused by these bacteria is not treated properly, the number will increase until it reaches the bloodstream and causes inflammation and swelling.

Therefore, the researchers also saw that xylitol could actually solve this problem. This is done by increasing the protein in the immune system, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth.

3. Prevent ear infections

Source: Sohu

Basically, your mouth, nose and ears are connected. Therefore, if the bacteria in the mouth run rampant, your ears can be affected.

The bacteria that cause plaque on your teeth can cause infections in your ears, especially the eardrums. It turns out that the benefits of xylitol on teeth are also influential in overcoming this condition.

A study involving 850 children showed that the xylitol candy they chewed contained anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Both reduce ear infections by up to 30%. Apart from that, xylitol also fights off Candida Albicans, namely the bacteria that cause candida infections. Therefore, taking xylitol in moderation can reduce and prevent ear infections.

4. Are antioxidants

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, antioxidants can combat free radicals that cause diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. Well, a study reveals that xylitol contains antioxidants that can neutralize the triggers of the disease above.

This was shown by mice with diabetes consuming xylitol. A few days later it became apparent that what he was eating was counter-attacking the free radicals. While this looks promising, it will certainly require human trials to confirm this.

5. Healthier sinuses

A study by Dr. Peter Hwang from Stanford Hospital revealed that xylitol which has been dissolved in water can actually overcome the symptoms of sinusitis. Therefore, many people have turned to medications that involve xylitol to relieve their sinusitis symptoms.

Safe dosage for xylitol use

In order for you to benefit from xylitol, of course, you must consume it within reasonable limits. Anything in excess will have consequences and side effects. Therefore, it would be better if you use xylitol in safe doses.

Everyone has their own safe limits for using drugs, including xylitol. Reporting from webmd.com, an adult's body can receive at least 7-20 grams of xylitol per day, which of course is divided into smaller doses, namely three to five doses. Usually given as candy or chewing gum. It is recommended that xylitol gum be chewed 10-20 minutes after eating.

Well, even small children who are over 5 years old can use xylitol as a substitute for their sugar. They can consume 5-8 grams per day to reduce plaque bacteria in the mouth.

Xylitol side effects

In addition to the various benefits that xylitol can provide, it turns out that consuming it excessively can have side effects that can affect your health. Excessive doses of xylitol can actually cause diarrhea and flatulence. In addition, giving xylitol to your pets, such as dogs, is very dangerous because it poisons their bodies.

Now, after you know the benefits of xylitol are good for your health, try to start replacing your sugar with xylitol. However, there's no need to rush your body to get used to itself.