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Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweet tasting natural sugar substitute. It naturally occurs
in many fruits and vegetables such as plums, corn and strawberries. Research
has found that xylitol fights cavities, plaque, dry mouth and bad breath.
It neutralizes plaque acids and can remineralize tooth enamel. It can be
used by diabetics and is even safe for premature babies. In addition to being
a marvelous sweetener it may be instrumental in preventing many types of
infections. Xylitol has proven to be a successful weapon in the war against
tooth decay.
Benefits of xylitol
- Excellent taste
- Very low glycemic index
- Minimal effect on blood sugar
- Increases absorption of B vitamins and calcium
- Improves dental health
- Inhibits plaque and dental cavities by 80 %
- Inhibits the growth of cavity causing bacteria
- Retards demineralization of tooth enamel
- Promotes remineralization of tooth enamel
- Reduces bad breath
- Increases saliva production
- Prevents ear and sinus infections
- Fewer calories than sugar
- No after taste
Xylitol comes in many forms. Chewing gum is available in peppermint, spearmint,
fruit and cinnamon. The chewing gum was found to be so effective in reducing
cavities that it is used in the school system in Finland. Mints are available
in lemon and peppermint and the granular sweetener looks just like sugar.
It also is available in a nose spray.
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