 |
| What is Xylitol? |
Xylitol is an all natural, non-GMO (genetically modified) sweetener that is derived from hardwood trees and the fibrous parts of plants.
It also occurs in small amounts in natural form in some fruits and vegetables including raspberries, strawberries and endive lettuce.
Xylitol looks and tastes like sugar, but does not wreak havoc on the body.
We all know the dangers and the horrific side effects associated with refined sugars. Aside from the obvious, weight gain, tooth decay, diabetes and high blood pressure, sugar has also been linked to attention deficit disorder, sleep disorders and many other preventable health issues.
So why do we crave the Sugar so much??
Sugar has been proven to trigger the release of dopamine into the body.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter or messenger that helps control the brain's "reward and pleasure" centers. In other words, when dopamine levels are high, our brains and bodies get the sensation of feeling high.
That's basically why we LOVE and CRAVE sugar and where the term "Sugar High" comes from.
Xylitol is an excellent alternative for the obtaining sweetness of sugar, however unlike sugar it has 40% fewer calories and 75% less carbohydrates.
Although classified as a carbohydrate and sugar alcohol, Xylitol is slowly absorbed from the digestive tract and does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
Enjoy chewing gum or sucking on breath mints?Swap the NASTY sugar or aspartame filled choices for products using Xylitol as the sweetener.
Xylitol prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth and can help maintain neutral PH levels inside the mouth which inhibits bacteria from growing and causes tooth decay.
In fact, the World Health Organization has given Xylitol it's safest rating for food additives and is highly recommended by dental care professionals.
My best nutrition advice regarding refined sugars and sweeteners is to completely omit them from the diet all together!
However as a treat or addition to baking, I recommend using Xylitol over any other sweetener.
Stevia is also an excellent alternative.
Look for Xylitol in any health food store, make sure it is Non-GMO! It costs more than table sugar, but as the saying goes:
"You get what you pay for!"
For more information regarding the dental and medical benefits of Xylitol: Xylitol.Org
For more information regarding Stevia: Stevia.com
My Favorite Chewing Gums & Mints:
Spry Brand
Xyla Brand
Xylitol Fresh
