Minor xylitol side effects include flatulence, diarrhea, allergy and reduced blood sugar levels. Diabetics need to be aware that this sweetener still contains carbohydrates.
What is xylitol?
Over the past few years, xylitol (Epic, Xylosweet…) has gained popularity as a lower calorie sugar alternative that exists naturally in fibrous vegetables, fruits and birch trees. Containing 40% less calories and 75% less carbohydrates than the common sugar, it is commonly used in processed food products and chewing gum as a dietary supplement and especially for oral care. Unlike sugars that convert into acid and as such induce tooth decay, xylitol is not converted and reduces the levels of bacteria that cause the decay.
To prevent tooth decay, research recommends you consume gum until your daily xylitol intake reaches at least 6 grams. In the left picture, you can have an idea what that will cost you, depending on which xylitol gum you buy.
Xylitol is a white crystalline polyol (glycerol and the much cheaper sorbitol sweetener are the best known polyols) that is basically made of alcohol derived from ‘xylose’ or commonly called wood sugar. It has a taste similar to that of sucrose and is believed to be non-carcinogenic. Since it is not easily converted into fats and absorbed at a much slower pace than normal sugar, it is a perfect choice for the diabetics, body builders and people who are on a diet.
Xylitol danger
- As with all sugar alcohols: failing to digest xylitol can result into flatulence and diarrhea.
- Consuming it in high doses can lead to hypoglycemia (i.e. you blood glucose level becomes abnormally low ) or create a laxative effect.
- Very high doses of this sweetener administered by IV to boost energy levels can elevate the uric acid levels in your blood. This can result into high risk of developing kidney stones, strain to the liver and increased acid levels in your blood.
- A very small amount of people may be allergic to this sweetener. Consuming it in large quantities could result into rashes and urticaria (those itchy bumps that occur after you hit into nettle leaves). Other allergies may occur from consuming poorly purified xylitol extracted from birch wood: symptoms include hives, itching, difficulty in breathing, wheezing and swelling around the mouth and throat.
- Diabetics should note that when sugar is replaced by xylitol (or sorbitol and mannitol for that matter), these sugar alcohols do contain carbohydrates and calories.
- Dog owners should know that xylitol can be toxic for their pet, even in very small amounts eaten from swallowing gum or sweets. If your dog happens to consume anything containing xylitol, do bring your pet to your vet on the spot.
These are some of the side effects that you may experience as a result of taking xylitol. It is important that you contact your health care provider should you develop these side effects for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
