Xylitol is a naturally derived polyol and sugar alternative. Traditionally it comes from Birch trees (‘Xyl’ is Greek for wood – think ‘xylophone’), but it can be found in lots of trees and vegetables.
Peppersmith source their Xylitol from Beech trees and also some other starchy vegetables like green beans. It is naturally sweet but unlike other polyols it actively promotes healthy teeth by reducing acid attacks and the bacteria that causes plaque.
Firstly, Xylitol prevents the growth of MS (mutans streptococci) bacteria in the mouth through a ‘futile metabolic cycle’. Essentially the bacteria metabolises the xylitol and wastes its energy, ultimately stopping itself from multiplying.
Secondly, Xylitol reduces the population of plaque by making it harder for plaque to stick to teeth. It does this by reducing the population of EPS (extracellular polysaccharides) bacteria which contribute to the adhesiveness of MS bacteria. This basically means that they cannot colonise, become sticky and form plaque. Because the plaque is weaker it makes it easier to remove through everyday brushing. Significant reductions in bacteria and total plaque quantities can be observed following periods of consumption of Xylitol from as little as two weeks. The plaque stays reduced during Xylitol consumption and regrowth is slow when it has ceased.
Thirdly, not only is the amount of plaque reduced but plaque no longer produces acids from Xylitol, so it acts against low pH in the mouth.
What’s the ideal dosage of Xylitol?
To get the full benefits of Xylitol you need about 5g per day. An easy way to get this amount into your diet is to chew about 5 pieces of Peppersmith gum, or eat about 9 Peppersmith mints per day. This amount will prevent plaque and acid attacks, keeping your teeth clean and healthy.
What if you want to eat more than 5g per day?
Xylitol is a polyol (a family of sugar alternatives) and as with all polyols, 'excessive consumption' can cause a laxative effect. The good news though is that 25% to 50% of Xylitol is absorbed in the intestine so it’s much better tolerated than some other sugar alternatives. So the big question is, how much is 'excessive'? Well it completely depends on the individual as we are all different. Research has shown that the tolerance for Xylitol can be up to 70g for adults and 40g for kids (per day). To put this into perspective a whole pack of mints is 13.8g so will be well tolerated by the vast majority of people.
Keep Xylitol away from dogs:
Please make sure that any products containing Xylitol, including Peppersmith products, stay out of the paws of our furry friends as Xylitol can have a similar effect to chocolate for dogs.
