FAQ's
Xylitol is a natural sweetener derived from natural sources. It is also produced
in the human body as a by-product of a normal metabolism. Our xylitol is of the
highest quality possible. It is a pharmaceutical grade, meaning it must be more
that 99.95% pure, and is made from non-GMO (non-genetically modified organism) corn
fibers. It does not contain any of the corn grain and it is tested to ensure that
no corn allergens, mycotoxins, or corn proteins of any type are in the product.
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Chemically speaking, xylitol is not actually a sugar, but a sugar alcohol. It differs
from other sweeteners such as sorbitol, fructose and glucose because its molecule
has five, instead of six, carbon atoms. Most bacteria and yeast in the mouth are
unable to make use of xylitol. It is much sweeter than sorbitol, for instance. Assessed
in terms of calories, xylitol’s sweetening power is the same as that of sucrose
(table sugar), but with 40% fewer calories. Xylitol is important because it may
help to reduce the risk of tooth decay, and everyone interested in healthy teeth
should be familiar with its properties and effects.
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Xylitol occurs in small amounts in natural form, especially in fruit, berries, vegetables
and mushrooms. For example raspberry, strawberry, yellow plum and endive contain
xylitol. Xylitol is also found in human tissues.
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Yes. Classified on labels as a carbohydrate, it has been used in foods since the
1960’s and is approved in the U.S. as a food additive in unlimited quantity for
foods with special dietary purposes and is safe for use in any sugar-controlled
diet.
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Xylitol was discovered almost simultaneously by German and French chemists in the
late 19th century. In the Soviet Union it has been used for decades as a sweetener
for diabetics, and in Germany in solutions for intravenous feeding. Its dental significance
was researched in Finland in the early 1970’s, when scientists at Turku University
showed it had significant dental benefits.
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Yes it is. In 1983, JECFA, a joint expert committee of WHO and FAO, confirmed the
fact, already known by scientists that it is a safe sweetener for foods. The FDA
also confirmed this fact in 1986.
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Xylitol is a natural and convenient way of keeping your mouth healthy. Research
shows that a mere 4 to 5 exposures per day is enough. Xylitol should be chewed immediately
after a meal or a snack. If you eat more snacks, you of course need more frequent
help from xylitol.
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Spry Gum is sweetened with xylitol only. Frequent eating of foods high in sugars
and starches can promote tooth decay. Xylitol, unlike other sugars, may reduce the
risk of tooth decay.
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No- we do not recommend that xylitol products be fed to pets. Our products are intended
for human consumption only. Since the release of a report on xylitol and dogs published
in the October 1, 2006 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
(AVMA), Xlear has regularly been asked about the company’s position on the sweetener
as it relates to man’s best friend. We’ve written an
FAQ to address these questions specifically. Xlear does not make products
for dogs, nor do we recommend dog owners give their dogs xylitol or any other food
designated for human consumption.
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If you are concerned for the health of your pet, we recommend you contact your veterinarian.
Be prepared to provide your veterinarian with a description of the products your
pet consumed and any symptoms you pet has experienced.
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When properly used, Xylitol may help reduce the incidence of tooth decay. When you
use xylitol gum or mints, the acid attack that would otherwise last for over half
an hour, is stopped. Because the bacteria in the mouth causing caries are unable
to ferment xylitol in their metabolism, their growth is reduced. The number of acid-producing
bacteria may fall as much as 90%. Since no acid is formed, the pH of saliva does
not fall. Research has shown that the use of xylitol gum or mints also helps correct
incipient damage to the enamel. Saliva in itself protects the mouth and teeth. Saliva
containing xylitol is more alkaline than saliva which contains other sugar products.
After taking xylitol products, the concentration of basic amino acids in saliva
may rise. When pH is above 7, calcium and phosphate salts in saliva start to precipitate
into those parts of enamel where they are lacking.
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Xylitol is one of the most important alternatives to sugar. But, it is more than
a mere substitute; it is a health-promoting sweetener. That is why xylitol chewing
gum and mints play an important role as instruments of dental care.
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A healthy mouth and teeth are a important part of vigorous everyday life. That is
why it is important to take good care of them. To keep a beautiful and healthy smile
brush you teeth daily and visit your dentists regularly.
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No, it is not--but xylitol chewing gum, like other chewing gum, is not meant to
be swallowed. If it does get swallowed, it will be transported naturally among other
food through intestines. The best way to dispose of your chewing gum is to wrap
in a piece of paper and throw it in a waste basket.
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