Did you know there’s a sugar substitute that looks and tastes like the real thing? It’s a smart sugar substitute with a challenging name: Xylitol.

In Brief

Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol that is typically made from corn cobs and birch bark. It is a white, granulated substance, like sugar. While its appearance and taste closely resemble those of sugar, it contains 40 percent fewer calories (about two calories per gram) and the body metabolizes only one-third of it when it’s consumed.

Doses typically are 7 to 20 grams per day taken in three to five doses, most often in chewing gum and toothpaste.

The Good News

If you enjoy sugary treats—such as candy and other desserts—Xylitol can be a successful substitute. Here's why:

• It’s a great substitute for sugar that can help prevent tooth decay.
• It increases saliva production, another way to protect teeth and prevent dry mouth.
• It reduces plaque which helps maintain healthy gums.
• It’s easy to use. It comes as an additive in chewing gums, mints and oral care products such as toothpaste.

One more related to dosage: Some brands of chewing gum contain just milligram amounts of the substance, much less than the dosage required to prevent tooth decay. Reading labels is key.

Cautions

Moderate consumption and monitoring for side effects is recommended.

• As a food additive, Xylitol has received the FDA’s "Generally Recognized as Safe" status. But those used to a high sugar intake may go beyond the recommended dose and use 30 or more grams per day. These higher doses may bring on discomfort in the form of gastric side effects. For some, even as small a dose as 10 grams may result in some gastric distress.
• While it may help control weight and diabetes in some cases, these goals should be managed together with your primary care physician. The substance is a sugar alcohol which can raise blood sugar levels.
• Those who are pregnant should defer using Xylitol. Further studies on its effects during pregnancy are necessary.
• Patients with dogs should be sure to keep products containing it away from their furry friends since the product may be toxic to dogs.

Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that, in the proper dosage, has been proven to prevent tooth decay. It may be a great bridge to help you transition to healthier diets that maintain your overall health and winning smile over time.