Every since childhood we've been warned about the damage that sugar can inflict on our teeth. In the future, we may not have to be as concerned. A new natural sweetener, called Xylitol, not only won't damage teeth, but actually helps keep teeth healthy.
Xylitol is found naturally in strawberries, plums, pears and in birchwood trees. Xylitol looks and tastes like sugar but has one third fewer calories.
Because it is metabolized independently of insulin, Xylitol is a useful sweetener for diabetics. In fact, it as been used in Russia for many years for this purpose.
The most beneficial aspect of Xylitol, however, is its effect on dental health. Normally, plaque bacteria in our mouth digest sugar, producing acid as a result. It is this acid which eats into tooth enamel to create cavities.
Bacteria can not utilize Xylitol, although they try to. Consequently, their growth is inhibited.
By inhibiting the growth of plaque bacteria, Xylitol helps create cavity free smiles.
