Xylitol Is Nature’s Own Sweeter

Most people have a “sweet tooth” and many love their chocolate.  Chocolate is more than a snack – it is an indulgence and a reward.  Used by the natives of ancient Mesoamerica, chocolate has been recognized for centuries for its ability to give energy, restore vitality and stimulate the pleasure centers in the brain.  

When adopting a healthier lifestyle, it usually means giving up both sugar and chocolate but this month we want to introduce you to a product that’s been around a long time, but it’s only recently received consumer attention.

Is Xylitol Natural?

The name Xylitol (Zi-LA-Tol) may conjure up images of a mad scientist mixing some exotic new chemical compound in a laboratory or perhaps the image of some distant planet in some science fiction story.  In reality, neither is true.  A natural compound, Xylitol looks and tastes just like sugar. It is found naturally in many common fruits and vegetables, and it is even produced in our bodies during normal metabolism.

Sweet With Bacteria Fighting Properties

Xylitol is as sweet as sugar but carries none of the health concerns of sugar and artificial sweeteners which makes it completely safe for both children and adults. 

• While regular sugar can wreak havoc on the body, Xylitol heals and repairs
• While sugar is acid-forming in the body, Xylitol is alkaline-enhancing resulting in better health

Unlike most sugar molecules which are based on a six-carbon structure, Xylitol is based on five carbon atoms.  Because of its distinctive structure, bacteria cannot utilize Xylitol for energy.    Xylitol’s chemical configuration also inhibits the body’s ability to fully metabolize it, making it the perfect sweetener for those concerned with blood sugar balance, weight loss or carb counting.

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