Xylitol, also known as birch sugar, is a natural sugar substitute (polyol) that has become particularly popular in recent years among people seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
This product is extracted from the bark and wood of birch trees (sometimes from corn starch), has a sweet taste comparable to regular sugar, but contains significantly fewer calories and does not cause sharp spikes in blood glucose levels.
Xylitol contains a number of nutrients, including:
- Calcium — important for bone and tooth health.
- Magnesium — helps normalize metabolism and supports nervous system function.
- B vitamins — involved in carbohydrate and fat metabolism.
It promotes dental health as it inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
When consumed in large amounts, it may have a laxative effect.
Nutritional Value
Compared to sugar, xylitol has fewer calories — 2.4 kcal per gram. This is almost 40% less than regular sugar.
The glycemic index of xylitol is approximately 7, making it safe for people following a keto diet.
Xylitol also has a low glycemic load.
However, in a keto diet, xylitol can be used in limited amounts, as it still contains calories.
The recommended dosage is no more than 30-40 grams per day.
Options on iHerb
| Product | Price, $ |
|---|---|
Health Garden, All Natural Birch Xylitol Sweetener, 50 Packets, 0.21 oz (6 g) Each | 11.85 |
NOW Foods, Real Food, Xylitol Plus, 75 Packets, 0.0635 oz (1.8 g) Each | 9.39 |
Stevita, Naturals, Stevia With Xylitol, Supreme, 50 Packets, 1.8 oz (50 g) | 7.70 |
XyliDENT, Dry Mouth, Moisturizing Tablets with Xylitol, Wintergreen, 100 Tablets, 1.76 oz (50 g) | 15.65 |
XyliDENT, Dry Mouth, Moisturizing Tablets with Xylitol, Pomegranate Raspberry, 100 Tablets, 1.76 oz (50 g) | 15.65 |
XyliDENT, Dry Mouth Moisturizing Tablets with Xylitol, Wintergreen, 40 Tablets | 9.37 |
XyliDENT, Dry Mouth Moisturizing Gum with Xylitol, Fresh Mint , 40 Pieces, 2.39 oz (68 g) | 10.56 |
XyliDENT, Dry Mouth Moisturizing Tablets with Xylitol, Peppermint , 40 Tablets, 0.70 oz (20 g) | 9.37 |
XyliDENT, Dry Mouth Moisturizing Tablets with Xylitol, Pomegranate Raspberry , 40 Tablets, 0.70 oz (20 g) | 9.37 |
Zint, Organic Xylitol Sweetener, 16 oz (454 g) | 18.75 |
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Substitution options in recipes
Erythritol. Plus 5% allulose. Allulose retains moisture and softens crystallization, bringing behavior closer to xylitol, but without the risk to pets (xylitol is toxic to dogs).
