Xylitol is undoubtedly the most used sweetener of the moment. But what, after all, are their particularities? Is it really healthy and a good option to replace sugar?
Nutritionist Juliana Pizzistema explains that xylitol is a natural sweetener found in the fiber of many fruits and vegetables, such as plum, raspberry, corn and some mushroom species.
Raquel Segobia, nutritionist of the same program, adds that xylitol is a substance obtained through the hydrogenation (reduction) of xylose (sugar). "It has even been used for a long time in dentistry, for example, to sweeten children's toothpaste," he says.
Learn why this natural sweetener is a good choice and how to use it in everyday life:
5 Benefits of Xylitol You May Not Know
Juliana explains that today the use of xylitol has increased significantly, especially because its sweetening power is similar to sugar. "But every ounce of it contains about 40 percent fewer calories compared to sugar," he says.
Also read: 10 Healthy Alternatives to Kill Your Craving for Candy
Raquel adds that, in addition to the low calorie content, xylitol pleases because it has a sweeter taste, but less residual when compared to other sweeteners.
But does not stop there! Overall, nutritionists highlight the main benefits of using xylitol:
- It has low calorie;
- Significantly sweet and without (or, depending on taste, little) residual taste;
- Inhibits caries formation;
- It has low glycemic index, ie, is well tolerated by diabetics;
- It helps in weight loss (as it is a good option to replace sugar).
The nutritionist Juliana reminds that, since its function is to sweeten, xylitol has no nutritional value, ie has minimal amounts of vitamins, minerals and proteins.
Is xylitol the best option to replace sugar?
Nutritionist Raquel points out that because of its low calorie content and because it has little influence on blood glucose changes, xylitol is an interesting option for people who want to exclude or decrease their daily sugar intake. "But, like sugar, it also goes through industrial processes and, therefore, consumption should not be free demand," he says.
Juliana adds that xylitol is not the only recommended sweetener. "Stevia has similar properties and can also be consumed by diabetics, hypertensive individuals and individuals who wish to lose weight," he explains.
Read also: 8 Natural Alternatives to Substitute Sugar in Your Diet
Where to buy xylitol
Today xylitol can easily be found for sale: in restricted food sections in most supermarkets, health food stores or even on the internet.
The sweetener can be purchased in bulk or in ready-made packaging from some natural product brands and / or supplements. It can also be found in liquid or powder versions. To know what is the best option of the product to buy, the ideal is to consult your nutritionist.
Contraindications and warnings about consumption
Juliana points out that consumption of xylitol (in large quantities) is not recommended for individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome or digestive problems due to natural fermentation. Also, it is considered toxic to dogs.
It should be emphasized that, despite being healthier than sugar, xylitol should not be consumed in excess. Your recommended daily intake is up to 2 little packages (or 10 drops). Always remembering that the ideal is to accustom the taste to the natural taste of food and / or drinks, ie, prefer to consume them without sweetening ?, concludes Juliana.
Remember, then, that xylitol is an effective natural sweetener to help reduce your daily sugar intake and is therefore a good diet ally. The best way to consume it and enjoy its benefits is by following the guidelines of your dietitian.
Read also: Demerara sugar: Using it can make your diet healthier
Xylitol, The Low Glycemic Sweet Alternative to White Sugar (April 2024)
- food
- 1,230
