Xylitol: Fact and Fiction



Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweet substance found in many fruits and vegetables. "Extracted, it is used in multiple ways, including medicine, gum and sweetener, says Dr. Cameron Fuller from his Redlands pediatric dental practice.  It can be found at most stores and in a variety of products. Here's what you should know about xylitol.

Fact: Xylitol does not convert to sugar. This means it can help decrease tooth decay.

Fiction: Xylitol cannot be over-used. Any product, including xylitol, is not good if it is over-used. However, in small doses it can be very beneficial.

Fact: Xylitol is bad for dogs. Research has found it is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause a multitude of problems including liver failure and seizures. If you have this product in your home, make sure to keep it away from dogs.

Fiction: Xylitol causes diarrhea in young children. While your child may experience a lose stool when they first begin using it, they should be fine when only small amounts are given and if Xylitol is used on a regular basis.

Fact: Xylitol is a natural sweetener. Our children may ingest multitudes of sugary or sweetened treats, however this is a natural sugar that has been determined to be healthier for children than regular sugar.

“No matter what substance is ingested by our children in their daily lives, we should use caution,” suggests Dr. Fuller. "Xylitol, researched since 2009, has been found to have several healthy benefits. Use it in low doses and start your child off to a healthy dental start."

Comments

  1. UnknownMay 9, 2014 at 2:39 PM

    Thanks for clarifying this. Basically to sum it up, I agree to use it in low doses for the most healthy effects. Thank you.

    Ansel Marvin | Kids Dental Tree

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownMay 18, 2014 at 7:51 PM

      Yes, there is a healthy dose of everything.

      Delete

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