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Q. On my last visit to the dentist our hygienist recommended we chew gum containing xylitol. She raved about its potential to stop the formation of cavities. Is this true? Is xylitol safe?
A. Xylitol is a natural sweetener derived from birch trees and other plants. It is used in sugar-free gum and candy, especially in Europe where significant research has been conducted on its benefits. In a review published last year, dental researchers concluded that “Sufficient evidence exists to support the use of xylitol to reduce caries [cavities]” (Pediatric Dentistry, March-April 2006).
If you chew too much xylitol-containing gum, you may develop diarrhea. Other than that, xylitol appears to be safe.
I have found the xylitol, isomalt or sorbitol found in many sugar-free products can cause diarrhea or painful, gassy bloating even when taken in very small quantities, so I suggest going really easy on consumption until you find the upper limit of what you can tolerate.
You may wish to tell your readers that xylitol is toxic to dogs. Our dogs love to chew/eat the occasional piece of gum our youngest daughter offers, and luckily we found that her preferred gum brand did not contain xylitol. Please warn your readers that xylitol and canines is a bad and possibly fatal mix.