Live Heather healthy with
This week campaigner and food writer Heather Mills talks to us about the benefits of sweetener xyitol
I’m always looking for ways of minimising sugar intake for myself and my family and friends while still treating ourselves to our favourite desserts.
I have used Stevia for over 20 years, but it can be a very difficult product to use in general even though it’s zero glycaemic and an excellent product for cooking.
I think xylitol is easier for people to use as a home sugar replacement.
It looks and tastes like real sugar but contains less than 40% of the calories.
It’s a natural carbohydrate and it’s found in fibrous plants and vegetables such as birch bark, berries and corncobs.
Our bodies produce small amounts during metabolism and it is approved as a sugar substitute in more than 35 countries.
Studies have shown it reduces plaque and teeth cavities by up to 80% by neutralising plaque-producing bacteria.
In some studies xylitol has been known to boost the immune system.
If that’s not reason enough to move away from sugar, one of the most exciting scientific studies shows it helps inhibit the growth of streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, reducing ear and sinus infections in children by 40%.
Because xylitol is known to relieve dry mouth it is shown to improve breath odour and reduce infections in the mouth.
It is safe for diabetics and hypoglycaemics, in moderation.
It also doesn't encourage the growth of yeast, helping minimise candida.
In contrast to ordinary sugar it increases the absorption of B vitamins and calcium.
The Germans have used it in solutions for intravenous feeding for years.
Dentists around the world recommend its use instead of sugar and it is now found in chewing gum, mints and toothpaste.
And in America, dental school studies have shown a significant decrease in plaque accumulation as many people now use xylitol in their breakfast cereals and for baking.
Try it, what have you got to lose?
‘‘ Studies show it reduces plaque and teeth cavities by up to 80%