The usefulness of polyols, including xylitol, as alternatives to sugars and as part of a comprehensive program including proper dental hygiene has been recognized by the American Dental Association . The results suggest that the value of xylitol may be highest during periods of high dental activity such as eruption of new teeth. The results suggest that systemic usage of polyol-based chewing gum reduces caries rates in young subjects, with xylitol gums being most effective. The study supports earlier work which suggests that xylitol and fluoride act synergistically to increase the efficacy of oral hygiene products. They showed a significant decrease in plaque accumulation.
Saliva helps with cleaning and protecting teeth from decay.
Use in the Diets of People With Diabetes Control of blood glucose, lipids and weight are the three major goals of diabetes management today. Xylitol is slowly absorbed. Therefore, when xylitol is used, the rise in blood glucose and insulin response associated with the ingestion of glucose is significantly reduced. The report also affirms xylitol's acceptability as an approved food additive for use in foods for special dietary uses. ADI, expressed in terms of body weight, is the amount of a food additive that can be taken daily in the diet over a lifetime without risk.