NOW Foods Xylitol Sweetener

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is naturally present in small amounts in various fruits and vegetables. It was originally extracted from birch trees in Finland. NOW Xylitol is derived from non-GMO corn. It is comparable to xylitol derived from other sources, such as birch.

• 100% Pure Natural Sweetener
• Non-GMO
• Resembles sugar in consistency and taste, but has a third fewer calories
• Great sugar alternative for diabetics
• Xylitol may also inhibit cavities by denying plaque bacteria the fuel (sugar) it needs to erode tooth enamel.
• Can be used as a sugar substitute in most sugar-free recipes.

Despite respectable media coverage, diets high in sugar can lead to a number of health ailments that only seem to generate the attention after it is too late. Fortunately, nature has blessed us with a host of natural sweeteners that can serve as much healthier alternatives. One of the most exciting is Xylitol.

Discovered in the 1800s, Xylitol is an all natural sugar alcohol that has been the subject of intense research for over thirty years. This ongoing research continues to teach us that Xylitol is an excellent choice when it comes to sugar substitutes.

For starters, Xylitol looks, and has the same texture as sugar. Side by side, it can be difficult to distinguish one from the other. With regards to taste, Xylitol is sweet, but not nearly as overpowering as conventional table sugar. Finally, it mixes instantly in beverages and easily takes the place of sugar in baking applications.

Despite how similar the two are, Xylitol clearly has a number of health advantages. For instance, Xylitol has approximately 40% fewer calories than table sugar. At 2.4 calories per gram vs. 4 calories per gram in conventional sugar, it is easy to see why Xylitol has created such a stir among calorie counters.

Moreover, Xylitol is absorbed and utilized at a much slower pace than sugar, and therefore does not cause blood sugar and insulin levels to spike in the manner that sugar does. From a metabolic perspective, Xylitol has an extremely low glycemic rating or 7, while refined sugar is closer to 100.

Unlike sugar and high fructose corn syrup, Xylitol does not promote cavities. Studies have shown that when consumed in chewing gums, tooth pastes, oral rinses, mints, and hard candy, Xylitol is a smart choice for individuals concerned with dental health. It is absolutely suitable for people of every age, and is now officially endorsed by six International Dental Associations.

Finally, the mouth, middle ear, and upper respiratory systems are prone to a number of harmful infection-causing bacteria. One of the major problems with conventional sugar is that it creates an environment favorable to bacterial growth. Xylitol, on the other hand, can not be utilized by these bacteria. And unlike many commercially marketed artificial sweeteners, Xylitol is a completely natural substance that the body produces every day.