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Xylitol: One sugar alcohol that doesn't deserve a bad rap
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One bone of contention in the low-carb community is whether or not to include sugar alcohols in the diet. Whether or not the two sides will ever agree, one sugar alcohol, Xylitol, has added another jewel to its crown of health.Not only does it prevent cavities by luring and "starving" oral bacteria, help prevent ear, upper respiratory, sinus, and oral yeast infections, it now has been shown to increase bone health in rats.
Osteoporosis is a real issue for post-menopausal women, as well as those who have had weight loss surgery. Gastric bypass can block the absorption of both iron and calcium, while gastric banding can interfere with the absorption of calcium due to the interference of the band placement itself. Dietary Xylitol has been shown to be a major player in the prevention of osteoporosis.
Approximately 40 grams, or 10 teaspoons, a day can go a long way in helping to protect bone. There are, however, two caveats to this. Overconsumption of sugar alcohols can make us downright socially unacceptable. Let's just say that too many of them can make us feel as if we are taking orlistat. Xylitol is less problematic than sorbitol or maltitol, but tolerance differs from person to person. It's best to experiment on weekends. The second issue is that xylitol is deadly for dogs. Keep it well out of your pooch's path.
For more info: See the Weston A. Price Foundation's informative take on all things sweet.
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