Medical Uses Overview

NIH Consensus Statement

While the dental benefits of xylitol have been researched and well documented, there are several medical benefits of particular importance as well.

Prevention of Acute Otitis Media

Numerous studies have illustrated that xylitol helps reduce the incidence of dental cavities and the number of mutans streptococci in plaque. Xylitol has also been found to inhibit the growth of Pneumococci. Studies have also concluded that xylitol is effective in preventing acute otitis media (AOM) when given in a syrup or chewing gum, thereby decreasing the need for antibiotics.

Well-Suited for Diabetic Patients

Control of blood glucose, lipids and weight are three major goals of diabetes management today. Xylitol is a naturally occurring 5-carbon sugar alcohol. It is found in many fruits and vegetables and is even produced by the human body as an intermediate in the normal metabolism of glucose. Xylitol is metabolized independently of insulin and is slowly absorbed. Therefore, when xylitol is consumed, the rise in blood glucose and insulin response associated with the ingestion of glucose is significantly reduced.  This low-glycemic effect of xylitol metabolism makes xylitol an ideal alternative carbohydrate for foodstuffs prepared for diabetics or for carbohydrate management diets.

Xylitol also has 40% less calories than sugar, which is consistent with the objective of weight control.

Using Xylitol Products

The safety of xylitol has been proven in long-term clinical studies and has been confirmed by all the major regulatory bodies worldwide. Nevertheless, as with other polyols, large quantities may have a laxative effect. The amount tolerated varies with individual susceptibility and body weight. Most adults can tolerate at least 40g per day.