A sweeter smile - goodnews - xylitol - old form of sugar - Brief Article

Some people are rediscovering an old form of sugar--xylitol--that prevents dental cavities and may help diabetics. Cavity-causing bacteria are unable to metabolize xylitol, causing their numbers to fall as much as 90 percent. Xylitol contact also inhibits bacteria from forming plaque on teeth. Plus, xylitol is an ideal sweetener for diabetics because it is metabolized without insulin.

Both the World Health Organization and the US Food and Drug Administration have approved its safety.

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