A Sugar That Heals More Than Just Tooth Cavities

Xylitol is a natural sugar alternative that’s long been overlooked in the US, despite widespread use in other countries. Dr. Ellie Phillips, dentist, has spent decades promoting its benefits, and here’s why:

Xylitol can do it all (or at least, it can do a lot!)

First, for those who like natural things, be aware: it is natural!

It’s found in fruits like raspberries and strawberries, as well as corn husks, and especially in birch and beech trees. It’s also produced in the human body, making it easily recognized and processed. Historically, xylitol was used as a baking sugar for diabetics over 150 years ago.

Scandinavian countries, especially Finland, have used xylitol in public health programs for decades. Preschoolers given xylitol gum had significantly fewer cavities, and pregnant women saw reduced bacterial transmission to their babies. It also promotes healthy gut bacteria and increases butyrate production, improving digestion and mineral absorption.

Xylitol mints and gum are both effective. Gum should be chewed for 2–10 minutes, then spat out. If you want to maximize oral health benefits, you can avoid eating or drinking (called “mouth rest”) for about an hour afterwards, and this will optimize the oral microbiome by giving the “friendly” bacteria a chance to proliferate after the “unfriendly” bacteria were selectively killed by the xylitol.

Any downsides? There is one, and it’s not relevant to human health, but xylitol is toxic to dogs, and so should not be shared with them.

For more on all of this, plus a discussion of some recent studies (including xylitol’s anticancer potential), enjoy:

Click Here If The Embedded Video Doesn’t Load Automatically!

Want to learn more?

You might also like:

Tartar Removal At Home & How To Prevent Tartar ← also from Dr. Phillips, and yes, xylitol features as part of her 5-point plan

Take care!