Keeping Nasal Passages Clean Never More Important for Health

New study links chronic childhood ear infections with obesity

OREM, Utah – September 16, 2008 – A recent study conducted by taste and hearing experts at the University of Florida College of Dentistry suggests that "people with a serious history of childhood ear infections appear to be about 70 percent more likely to be obese than those with no history." The majority of infection-causing bacteria enter the body through the nose-- often attaching themselves to nasal tissue in the upper respiratory tract and Eustachian tubes causing sinus and ear infections. Keeping the nasal passages clean and hydrated with Xlear Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol can enhance the body’s natural cleansing processes and help to flush out harmful pollutants and bacteria.

The published study by the University of Florida indicated that chronic ear infections may damage a vital taste-sensing nerve in kids, which may influence the types and amount of foods they like to eat, particularly sweet and fattening foods,” commented Blaine Yates, chief executive officer of Xlear, Inc. “The researchers went as far to say that ‘without question those with otitis media weighed more’ than those without. Xlear Nasal Spray acts as a natural hydrator and cleanser, and given this report, keeping the nasal passage clean has never been more important."

Xlear Nasal Spray is an all-natural saline and xylitol spray that washes and moisturizes the nasal passages thereby helping the body to keep dirt, pollutants, and pollens from adhering to the nasal tissues and sinuses while increasing the natural moisture flow process. Washing the nose with a hyperosmolar solution, such as Xlear Saline Nasal Spray helps to flush out irritants that can lead to ear and sinus discomfort. Because Xlear is all natural, it can also help to reduce the dependence on over-the-counter or prescription medications. Xlear Nasal Spray can be used as often as needed by adults and children. It is non-medicated and non-habit forming, and has no side-effects or artificial preservatives. The spray can be used daily and year-round.

The University of Florida study is also supported by other studies conducted by researchers and scientists at the University of Connecticut, the Otitis Media Research Center at the University of Minnesota, and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). The University of Connecticut study concluded that people with taste nerve damage preferred sweets and high-fat foods. The University of Minnesota scientists found that ear infections that require tubes can lead to higher body mass index in toddlers, while NIDCD research discovered that children who were treated for ear infections by having their tonsils removed were at a greater risk of being overweight.

Yates added, "We have learned a lot about ear infections over the past several years as issues of anti-biotic resistance and now connections to obesity are raising awareness for the health problem. It is important that parents consider all options available to help their children avoid suffering from ear infections and any possible future health issues. Tens of thousands of people around the world trust Xlear Nasal Spray as an all natural complement to their other health practices."

For more information about Xlear Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, please visit Xlear.com. Xlear is available nationwide through Xlear’s several thousand retail partners as well as online at Xlear.com.

About Xlear, Inc.

Founded in 2000, Xlear, Inc. (pronounced "clear") is one of the leading manufacturers of xylitol products, and one of the largest importers of xylitol in the United States. Xlear is committed to providing consumers with the health benefits of xylitol by manufacturing all-natural, health-enhancing products. Xlear offers Xlear Nasal Spray with Xylitol^®, a patented nasal spray; a complete line of dental health products offered under the Spry^® Dental Defense System brand; SparX candy; and XyloSweet^™, raw xylitol crystals used as a sugar substitute in cooking, baking and general consumption. Xlear, Inc. is a private company with headquarters in Orem, Utah. For more information, visit Xlear.com.