Jul 17, 2024 · Several studies suggest that it has various important benefits, including improved dental health. This article examines xylitol and its health effects. What is xylitol? Xylitol is categorized...

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

It is a colorless or white crystalline solid. It is classified as a polyalcohol and a sugar alcohol, specifically an alditol. Of the common sugar alcohols, only sorbitol is more soluble in water. The name derives from Ancient Greek: ξύλον, xyl [on] 'wood', with the suffix -itol used to denote it being a sugar alcohol.

Oct 4, 2023 · The main difference is that xylitol does contain some calories (it’s not zero-calorie like erythritol) but less than sugar. Xylitol also has a small impact on blood sugar levels, while erythritol does not have any impact, making it more suitable for diabetics.

Jun 7, 2024 · Research shows higher blood levels of xylitol and other sugar alcohols are associated with life-threatening risks. Here’s what to know and what to do about it.

May 16, 2023 · Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener added to some foods. It's nearly as sweet as sugar (sucrose), but has fewer calories. People with diabetes sometimes use xylitol as a sugar substitute.

Sep 4, 2024 · 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).

Sep 11, 2024 · Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that’s used to replace sugar in sugar-free or reduced-sugar desserts. It’s also found in sugar-free gum and breath mints. And it’s used in toothpaste. Emerging research suggests that high levels of xylitol may increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attack and stroke.

Mar 2, 2023 · Xylitol is a popular sweetener that looks and tastes similar to sugar. Since it is a type of sugar alcohol, xylitol is very low in digestible carbohydrate. As a result, it makes a frequent appearance in sugar-free products, and it is one of the most popular commercial sweeteners .

May 2, 2024 · Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is far better for your body than typical white refined sugar. It is often considered a “diabetic sweetener” and is basically as sweet as sucrose, but has 33% fewer calories.