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 whe...