A five-carbon sugar; said to have an effect in suppressing the growth of some of the bacteria associated with dental caries.
Sugar-alcohol (polyol).
A five-carbon sugar alcohol that has a sweet taste and has chemical properties similar to those of sucrose. It may be used in place of sucrose as a sweetener. The use of xylitol in the diet might reduce tooth decay in children.
Xylitol is a polyol compound that is naturally present in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including strawberries and mushrooms. It is commonly derived from the cellulose of birch trees, which is then hydrolyzed and hydrogenated to produce xylitol.
A carbohydrate that occurs naturally and is only partially absorbed by the body, xylitol serves as a sweetener that doesn’t contribute to tooth decay. It is often found in candies and beverages, and is also a sugar substitute commonly used by diabetics. Chewing gum containing xylitol has been found to lower the frequency of ear infections in some kids. However, consuming too much xylitol can result in stomach discomfort and gas.