I often get asked “What’s the best alternative to refined sugar?” I always recommend that people should make the switch to xylitol, raw cane sugar or raw honey for sweetening purposes.

Below is a quick summary of why I believe xylitol makes for a great alternative to sugar.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol was originally discovered in 1891 by Emil Fischer (1852-1910), a German chemist who won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1902 for his investigation of sugar and purine substances. It is a five carbon sugar alcohol, found in fibrous fruits and vegetables, corn cobs, and hardwood trees (like birch).

Research shows that the human body makes approximately 15 grams of xylitol on a daily basis. Although it looks, feels, and even tastes like regular sugar, the great news is that is has 40% fewer calories and 75% fewer carbohydrates than sugar!

Since the 1960s, it became popular as a low-calorie sugar substitute, and approved as a non-carcinogenic sweetener in human foods.

In 1986, The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology reported to the United States Food and Drug Administration that the use of xylitol in human foods is safe.

The safety of xylitol has since been proven in long-term clinical studies and has earned approval as a food additive from major regulatory agencies worldwide, including US Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization’s Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives and the European Union’s Scientific Committee for Food.

The Health Benefits of Xylitol

This natural sugar alcohol, when taken in small amounts, has also been recognized by dentists worldwide as a sweetener with the most promise at preventing cavities. Studies have also shown that it’s a safe sugar substitute for diabetics, helps prevent ear infections, slows the growth of candida, repairs damaged tooth enamel and increases white blood cell activity. Learn more about the health benefits of xylitol.

The Side Effects of Xylitol

Although xylitol is recognized as a safe food additive by U.S. government, it is known that if you consume it in excessive amounts, meaning over 6-8 grams of recommended xylitol for oral care daily, or more than 40 grams a day, then yes, you may potentially experience some uncomfortable side effects.

According to the California Dental Association, as xylitol is digested slowly in the large intestine, it acts much like fiber and large amounts can lead to soft stools or have a laxative effect. Other potential side effects include hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, diarrhea, gas and stomach discomfort when taken in high doses above what is recommended.

However, when taken in small doses, it is known to be free of side effects.

Buy Xylitol in Bulk!

Products That Contain Xylitol

There are numerous products with xylitol that you can begin using today. Products with xylitol include many varieties of chewing gum, breathmints, gum drops, hard candy, nasal sprays, throat lozenges, cough syrups, chewable vitamins, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and other confectionary products for diabetics.

The best option, is to buy xylitol in bulk or individual packets, and use it just as you would sugar.

According to the California Dental Association, for the amount of xylitol to be at decay-preventing levels, it must be listed as the first ingredient. To achieve maximum health benefits, you will need approximately 6-8 grams of xylitol (chewed or ingested) throughout the day to help prevent cavities. To help with ear, nose and throat problems, you will need approximately 10 grams daily. Use xylitol (chewing gums, breathmints) at least 3-5x a day for a minimum of 5 minutes immediately after snacks and meals, to keep it in contact with your teeth.

If you use xylitol sporadically or even once a day, it may not be as effective as it could be. If taken in large amounts, then you may experience some side effects. Taking it in moderation, on a regular basis is key for achieving healthy results, free of side effects.

Recommended Reading:

• The Health Dangers of Aspartame
• Refined Sugar: The Sweetest Poison of All
• 5 Reasons Why You Should Try Xylitol Breathmints