Xylitol is one of the most popular types of sugar substitute. It is a crystalline powder that does not contain carbohydrates. Xylitol is several times sweeter than sugar with significantly lower calorie content. It is considered completely safe for people of any age; xylitol can also be taken without fear by those who are actively involved in sports or are expecting the birth of a baby. Moreover, the sugar substitute is very beneficial for oral health; it stabilizes insulin levels in the blood and improves the general condition of the body.
Xylitol has been used as a substance that improves the taste of manufactured products and replaces sugar for more than 50 years - almost all of its positive properties have been studied for almost half a century. In Europe, xylitol is known as a food additive under the symbol E967, xylitol.
Natural ingredients are traditionally used to produce xylitol, including: birch leaves, straw, corn, almonds and oats. Xylitol is most popular among residents abroad, in particular in Europe and America; in the Russian-speaking area it is not so widespread. This is partly due to the fact that the production of this type of sweetener is a costly process, therefore, the product itself has a higher cost, and therefore is less popular than regular sugar.
Xylitol is often used in the preparation of candies, sodas, desserts, sweet teas, chewing gum, toothpastes and other products to maintain oral hygiene. It can also be found in medications whose action is aimed at restoring the proper functioning of the organs of hearing and smell.
What is xylitol
Xylitol is a polyhydric alcohol of plant origin, popular in the food industry and pharmaceuticals. Corn cobs, birch bark and some nuts are used as raw materials for its production. For the first time, xylitol was obtained artificially by scientists Fischer and Bertrand, this happened in 1891. However, production of the substance on an industrial scale began only in 1960.
Xylitol is characterized by a relatively low calorie content - this indicator is 40% less than that of regular sugar, but in terms of the degree of sweetness it is close to sucrose. In terms of its external characteristics, xylitol is close to ordinary salt and sugar: it has absolutely no odor and is perfectly soluble in water and alcohol. The substance in question has a low glycemic index, which makes its use safe for diabetics. There are practically no negative consequences from consuming xylitol.
However, there is also no need to talk about a long list of beneficial properties and the presence of vitamins: xylitol is a refined sweetener that provides the body only with empty calories and replaces sugar.
The compound in question is widely used in the production of desserts and sweet drinks; it can also be found in mouth rinses, toothpastes and other dental care products, and in medicines for the hearing and olfactory organs.
general characteristics
The discovery of xylitol (chemical formula - C5H12O5) occurred at the end of the 19th century almost simultaneously in two countries - Germany and France. People with diabetes began to actively use the new sweet substance as a safe alternative to sweets. In its pure form it is a white crystalline powder that can dissolve in water, alcohols, and acetic acid.
Content:
- general characteristics
- Role in the body
- Xylitol: benefits and harms
- Areas of application
- Effect on teeth
- Rescue from harmful fungi
- Diet sweets
- Sources
- Daily norm
- Birch sugar as a medicine
Xylitol is the only carbohydrate whose taste and appearance are identical to table sugar. But what made the substance even more popular is the fact that it can be obtained from almost any fibrous raw material of plant origin. Therefore, its other name is wood or birch sugar. Xylitol was first produced in Finland from birch bark.
Physical and chemical properties of xylitol
Xylitol is a substance that appears as white crystals.
The sugar substitute formula is as follows:
C5H12O5
The compound dissolves perfectly in water and in alcohol-containing media. It is odorless, but has a pronounced sweet taste.
Xylitol molecule
The molar mass of xylitol is 152.15 g/mol, its density is 1.52 g/cm3, the temperature at which the substance begins to melt is 92-96 °C, and the boiling point is 216 °C.
Xylitol as a food additive belongs to the category of humectants.
Remineralization
Remineralization of carious changes that begin in tooth enamel is a natural cariesstatic process. Thanks to the content of calcium, phosphates and fluorides, saliva has a remineralizing effect on tooth enamel. However, this is a rather slow process. The remineralizing effect is also attributed to xylitol, but the mechanism of its action is not fully understood. An important study of remineralization under the influence of xylitol was conducted in Belize, where hardening of demineralization foci was observed in 10-27% of caries pathologies.
Features of the xylitol production process
The production of xylitol is a complex multi-step process. The sugar substitute is made from various plant components: birch leaves, straw, corn cobs, nut shells and legumes.
First, the raw materials are subjected to an acid hydrolysis reaction, during which plant components interact with acids and break down into new substances. Xylose is formed, from which xylitol is made.
Hydrolytic production of xylitol is based on the properties of polysaccharides, which are part of 70% of plants. Polysaccharides are subjected to hydrolytic cleavage in the presence of mineral acids.
Hydrolysis is carried out at temperatures ranging from 180 to 190 °C and pressure from 1 to 1.5 MPa. A characteristic feature of production is the frequency of loading of raw materials and the continuity of acid percolation.
Plaque
The energy obtained from sugar is so abundant that bacteria can produce extracellular polysaccharides as reserve and adhesive substances. However, xylitol stops both the process of glycolysis (decomposition of glucose) and the reproduction of streptococcus mutans.
Exposure to xylitol reduces the adhesion of plaque bacteria to the surface of teeth, including when replacing sucrose during snacks. Thus, various studies confirm that chewing xylitol-containing gum reduces plaque formation.
The influence of the body on human health
Xylitol belongs to the category of substances that can be synthesized in the body independently. Thus, the adult body produces approximately 15 grams of xylitol in 24 hours.
In the body, the substance in question acts as a choleretic agent. This effect is especially noticeable when consuming 50 or more grams of sweetener per day. The substance also has laxative properties, which has led to its popularity among those seeking to reduce the mark on the scale. However, you should not abuse the sweetener: its excess, like an excess of other substances, can lead to negative consequences.
Xylitol also has anti-infective properties, which leads to its use in middle ear treatments.
The compound in question is also used for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. The results of numerous studies have proven the ability of xylitol to have a positive effect on the condition of bone tissue: it becomes denser and stronger.
Despite the long list of positive properties, xylitol is not one of the substances necessary for the proper functioning of the body. A person will not suffer if xylitol completely disappears from his diet.
It is recommended to include a sugar substitute in your diet for those who have metabolic disorders. In addition, the compound in question has a positive effect on the condition of tooth enamel - this is due to the inability of bacteria in the oral cavity to absorb it. As a result, the risk of developing caries is reduced.
The compound in question makes the process of assimilation of minerals, including calcium and fluorine, more effective. Due to this, xylitol is often included in various products intended to maintain oral hygiene.
Pharmacological properties of xylitol
It is worth highlighting the following properties of xylitol:
- does not have a negative impact on health;
- easily absorbed by the body;
- replaces sugar, but does not cause changes in blood sugar levels;
- normalizes the production of gastric juice and increases its volume;
- does not affect the metabolic process;
- non-toxic;
- accelerates bile production;
- protects the oral cavity from exposure to microbes;
- has bactericidal properties.
Sweeteners for weight loss
It's no secret that the amount of sugar we consume is directly related to our weight. According to research conducted by scientists, in order to achieve tangible results in losing weight, you need to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet. Conversely, in order to gain weight, you should consume more sugar. Nowadays, the problem of excess weight is relevant for a large number of people. Statistics say that every third person on Earth suffers from excess weight. That is why in the modern world so much attention is paid to sweeteners. The demand for them is growing every year.
Useful properties of xylitol
Xylitol, as mentioned above, is widely used to alleviate the condition of people with endocrine diseases, as well as metabolic disorders. In addition, the sugar substitute has a positive effect on the condition of tooth enamel.
The following positive properties of xylitol are distinguished:
- improving the condition of the oral cavity, strengthening tooth enamel - xylitol minimizes the likelihood of caries formation;
- xylitol does not cause sudden changes in blood sugar levels;
- xylitol is not as high in calories as regular sugar;
- the substance in question facilitates the process of combating acute infectious diseases;
- xylitol is often used in cases where it is necessary to improve the condition of the liver, as well as in cases of intestinal disorders;
- a sugar substitute improves the condition of patients with asthma;
- xylitol improves the condition of bone tissue - it makes them denser and is of great help in the fight against osteoporosis;
- xylitol normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
- a sugar substitute improves the absorption of B vitamins;
- xylitol retains water on the surface of the gums, which makes them softer;
Xylitol is very popular as a substance for the prevention of caries in children. It is included in toothpastes and mouth rinses.
Diet sweets
Xylitol has the same level of sweetness as sugar, but contains 30% fewer calories than glucose (1 teaspoon of xylitol has 9.6 calories). Another feature of the chemical composition of the substance is that it does not contain ineffective carbohydrates. These characteristics make xylitol an excellent dietary supplement and part of weight loss programs. Dietary sugar combines perfectly with any type of food and allows you to cut calories almost imperceptibly.
A sharp increase in blood sugar after consuming xylitol is impossible, since the absorption of the sweet substitute occurs more slowly than the absorption of table sugar. If you compare the glycemic index of table sugar and xylitol, you get a proportion of 100 to 7. And this is already a significant plus in favor of birch sweetness. This feature makes xylitol a suitable product for people with metabolic disorders, diabetics, and hypertension.
Harm of xylitol and contraindications to its use
Xylitol is considered one of the safest sugar substitutes, but with it, as with other products, you need to know when to stop. It is not recommended to exceed the daily xylitol intake - so, experts call the maximum dosage of the substance 50 grams. If xylitol is abused, it can provoke the development of diseases of the digestive system.
It is recommended that those who suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract be extremely careful with xylitol. In the presence of dysbacteriosis, xylitol can negatively affect the absorption of nutrients and cause nausea, diarrhea and bloating.
Xylitol can also become an obstacle to weight loss: the fact is that, although it has lower calorie content, it increases appetite, which means it encourages you to consume more calories.
It is recommended that those who regularly suffer from allergies be careful with xylitol. It is strictly prohibited to use xylitol for epilepsy.
Rescue from harmful fungi
Almost 80% of the world's population is infected with a fungus of the genus Candida, as some scientists say. One of the places where fungi multiply is the oral cavity. While other carbohydrate sweets promote the rapid growth of Candida, xylitol can prevent or completely stop this process.
Also, xylitol in combination with antifungal drugs is a component of therapy for the treatment of candidiasis, preventing the spread of fungus inside the body. Without receiving the sugar necessary for life, the fungi die.
Natural sources of xylitol, consumption rates
Xylitol is found naturally in:
- in most plants containing fiber;
- vegetables, fruits, berries
- mushrooms;
- hardwood;
- sugar cane;
- in birch bark, corn husks and cobs.
- produced by the human body (about 5-15 grams per day).
Daily consumption rate
Despite the low calorie content of the supplement compared to sugar, xylitol should not be consumed uncontrollably. The maximum dose is 30 grams per day. Exceeding this norm can provoke irritation of various organs of the gastrointestinal tract and fluid retention in the body.
Summarizing
Thus, with the help of xylitol-containing chewing gum, the effect of caries prevention can be achieved. Chewing gum should be consumed several times a day for a long time. In most studies, chewing gum is used 3-5 times a day, the daily dose of xylitol is about 5g. Research recommends sticking to this diet.
According to recent studies of the introduction of chewing gum into kindergarten preventive programs, this intervention to improve oral health receives a high level of acceptance by parents and staff. In addition, children were also enthusiastic about chewing gum.
When comparing the effects of xylitol- and sorbitol-containing chewing gum on the elimination of Streptococcus mutans in the oral cavity, it was found that in this six-month experiment, xylitol-containing gum showed better results. When using xylitol-containing chewing gum, the effect depends on the concentration of xylitol and its purity. It is believed that for antimicrobial effects it is enough to take 5 g daily, but 100% xylitol. Chewing gums containing mixtures of xylitol, sorbitol and other additives usually contain very small amounts of xylitol.
Thus, meeting the daily requirement can only be achieved by using chewing gum sweetened exclusively with xylitol. The minimum dose of xylitol for an effective effect has not been determined. Additionally, the studies do not indicate how many doses of xylitol are required to achieve long-term changes in oral microflora.
Areas of application of xylitol
Xylitol is a universal sugar substitute that has gained great popularity in many areas. Since the middle of the last century, it has been actively used in the food and chemical industries, and used for the preparation of medicines.
In food products, xylitol can be found as a food additive under the index E967: it functions as a diabetic sweetener, as well as a stabilizer and emulsifier. But do not use xylitol to prepare yeast dough - it reduces the efficiency of yeast.
Xylitol for weight loss
The sugar substitute does not have a direct effect on the amount of fat in the body and does not lead to weight loss. It is usually introduced into the daily diet instead of sugar to reduce the number of calories consumed. Xylitol replaces sugar in tea and baked goods.
In order to lose weight, replacing sugar with xylitol must be combined with regular physical activity and diet. Some also recommend using fat burners that speed up metabolism.
Xylitol for children
Xylitol is very useful for babies who put everything they see around them into their mouths. Due to such active study of the surrounding world, the oral cavity becomes infected with bacteria, and carious processes begin to develop. Consuming xylitol helps prevent tooth decay.
Xylitol for teeth
Xylitol is often included in toothpastes, powders and mouthwashes: it helps maintain a healthy and beautiful smile and sweetens the taste instead of sugar. Xylitol is not suitable for feeding bacteria found in the mucous membrane of the mouth and teeth. Microorganisms die, which means xylitol has a disinfectant effect.
Xylitol in toothpaste
A combination of fluoride, sodium, gluten and xylitol helps destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth. This composition also makes it possible to whiten tooth enamel without turning to specialists. This toothpaste can be used by both adults and children over 2 years old. The paste is applied behind the toothbrush and thoroughly rubbed into the surface of the teeth.
Xylitol in chewing gum
Chewing gum with xylitol is very popular among those who care about their oral health. It is recommended by many dentists: the chewing gum contains no GMOs, gluten or sugar. It is recommended to use chewing gum after meals to protect teeth from the development of caries and eliminate bad breath.
Lollipops with xylitol
Lollipops with xylitol
Xylitol lozenges are an excellent alternative to chewing gum. You can find such healthy sweets in different flavors. It is worth noting that, unlike regular candies, lollipops with xylitol do not harm teeth. Lollipops are not recommended for children under 3 years of age.
Wipes with xylitol
For the little ones they produce special wipes with xylitol. They are made from cotton and soaked in xylitol syrup. Wipes are used to clean the mouth before the child's first teeth appear.
Xylitol for diabetes
Due to its low glycemic index, xylitol is often used in the production of products for diabetics. The sugar substitute does not cause a sharp jump in blood glucose, which means it is completely safe for those who suffer from diabetes.
Xylitol in food
Xylitol is widely used as a sweetener in the production of low-calorie foods and products for diabetics. Thus, a sugar substitute can be found in the following food products:
- in milk and dairy products;
- in ice cream and fruit ice;
- in jams and jellies;
- sweets;
- sweets with the addition of dried fruits;
- bakery products;
- sauces.
Xylitol in cosmetics production
Xylitol can often be found in makeup removers, as well as toners and lotions. In them, it acts as a moisture-retaining agent. Xylitol is added to shampoos as a substance to stabilize the consistency. In face creams, the substance in question is used as an antimicrobial component responsible for increasing shelf life.
Xylitol in the production of medicines
In the pharmaceutical industry, xylitol is used to produce mixtures, syrups, chewable tablets and vitamins.
Xylitol in other industries
Xylitol is also popular in the production of household chemicals, ballistic powders, and in the textile and paper industries.
Which substitute to choose
Which sweetener is better to choose? Now among the best substitutes are Sucralose and Erythritol.
If you have any problems with the gastrointestinal tract, diabetes mellitus, or have experienced food allergies, be sure to consult your doctor before taking sweeteners.
It is not recommended to introduce substitutes into the children's menu. It is better for parents to monitor their children's consumption of sweets.
Sugar is present in almost every product and it is impossible to completely eliminate it from the diet. However, reducing its consumption to a minimum is quite possible.
