The efficacy and function of xylitol

Xylitol is a sweetener extracted from nature and is different from ordinary white sugar. Xylitol has many benefits and functions. It can provide sweetness for some people who cannot eat white sugar. Xylitol is added to many foods and is a very healthy additive. What we often see is xylitol chewing gum. Although xylitol has many benefits to the body, it also has some harms.

What is Xylitol

Xylitol originated in Finland and is a natural sweetener extracted from plant materials such as birch, oak, corn cobs, and bagasse. In nature, xylitol is widely distributed and exists in various fruits, vegetables, and cereals, but the content is very low.

Commercial xylitol is made through deep processing of agricultural crops such as corn cobs and sugarcane bagasse. It is a natural and healthy sweetener. For the human body, xylitol is not an "imported product". It is an intermediate in the normal sugar metabolism of the human body.

The efficacy and function of xylitol

1. Stabilize blood sugar

Xylitol is a sweetener that can be used instead of white sugar. It can be consumed by people with hyperglycemia and diabetes. After entering the human body, it can be metabolized without passing through the pancreas. It can also promote glycogen synthesis and provide energy for human cells. After consumption, it can stabilize blood sugar and reduce the occurrence of symptoms such as polyphagia, polydipsia and polyuria in diabetic patients.

2. Improve liver function

Xylitol has a certain effect on human liver. After being absorbed by the human body, this substance can promote glycogen synthesis, stabilize blood sugar, improve human liver function, prevent fat accumulation in the liver, and prevent fatty liver and hepatitis B. In addition, for people with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, eating more xylitol is also very beneficial to recovery.

3. Protect your teeth

Xylitol has a certain protective effect on human teeth. Although it tastes very sweet, it will not produce bacteria in the human mouth, nor will it allow bacteria to ferment. It contains some active ingredients that can inhibit the production of various pathogens and acidic components, and can reduce the corrosion and damage of these substances to teeth, thereby playing an important role in protecting teeth.

The harm of xylitol

Excessive intake of xylitol can cause diarrhea. This is because it is not easily broken down by enzymes in the stomach and will directly enter the intestines. Eating too much will cause certain irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, which may cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and intestinal rumbling. In addition, the absorption rate of xylitol in the intestine is less than 20%, and it is easy to accumulate in the intestinal wall, which can easily cause diarrhea. Therefore, it is recommended that the total daily intake of each person should not exceed 20 grams. It is important to note that although xylitol causes a lower increase in blood sugar levels and a lower rate than glucose and sucrose, diabetics should also eat it with caution, as excessive intake can cause blood sugar to rise.