Since some time ago, Xylitol became popular as a low-calorie sugar substitute found naturally in fruits, fibrous vegetables, and trees, being mostly used in chewing gums and other processed food products as a dietary supplement and for oral care.

This sweetener is a five-carbon sugar basically alcohol derived from xylose with a flavor similar to sucrose and more often consumed as Xylitol gum for tooth care, in which potential side effects rarely are disclosed.

Claimed to be a non-cariogenic sweetener, Xylitol is a white crystalline carbohydrate also used as a sugar substitute for diabetic patients, it’s dietary uses cause a slight diarrhea as a result of slow absorption from the intestine, a temporary condition but discomforting.

Xylitol is also known as wood sugar, hence promoted as a natural alternative sweetener derived from raspberries, birch, and plums. On the other hand, Xlear is a brand name for a saline solution used for nasal washing and toothpaste products, which primary active ingredient is Xylitol.

Xlear comes as a spray, used for reducing bacteria in the Eustachian tubes and nose. It also claims to decrease the risk of sinus infections, improving allergic conditions such as asthma and rhinitis. Products with Xylitol in their formula seem to cause no harm to people, and no side effects have been reported.

Xylitol products are more popular in Finland, where most sweets and candies are available in xylitol and sucrose-sweetened varieties. However, some Xylitol gum and candy products are known worldwide, such as Trident and Xlear.

In general terms, we can assure that Xylitol and side effects rarely occurs in people who consume this sweetener either way. Contrarily, this sweetener is recommended as a healthy alternative to sugar for most dietitians.

However, it is known that exceeding the 6 to 8 grams of recommended Xylitol for oral care can cause stomach discomfort and above 40 grams a day as sweetener, it might cause diarrhea.

Xylitol gum has minimal effects in those patients suffering from diabetes, due to blood sugar and insulin release, but doctors recommend Xylitol as a better alternative for diabetic patients, over sucrose, aspartame or natural sugar.

As Xylitol formulated product, Xlear has no side effects, and researchers have demonstrated its effectiveness combating oral and nasal bacteria that might trigger risky infections.

There are numerous products based on Xylitol that you can use without fearing side effects, including Epic Cavity Free Kits Xylitol Gum, Xylitol Mints, Xylitol Mouthwashes, Xylitol Sweeteners, and Xylitol Toothpaste.

Last but not least, if you are unsure of any potential side effect due to the use of Xylitol products or Xlear, a visit to your health care provider can put in clear terms what you can expect using this sweetener instead of sugar.

Natalie Aranda writes on health and nutrition. Since some time ago, Xylitol became popular as a low-calorie sugar substitute found naturally in fruits, fibrous vegetables, and trees, being mostly used in chewing gums and other processed food products as a dietary supplement and for oral care. Xylitol is also known as wood sugar, hence promoted as a natural alternative sweetener derived from raspberries, birch, and plums. On the other hand, Xlear is a brand name for a saline solution used for nasal washing and toothpaste products, which primary active ingredient is Xylitol.