What Happens to Your Body When You Consume Xylitol Gum?

SadaNews - Xylitol gum is a sugar-free gum sweetened with xylitol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that can also be manufactured. According to the website “Very Well Health,” there are several health benefits to xylitol gum, including...

Improving Dental Health

Chewing sugar-free gum, like xylitol gum, is an effective way to prevent tooth decay. Chewing gum for 20 minutes after eating can clean teeth and reduce the buildup of plaque on them.

Helping in Weight Management

The effect of xylitol on weight management depends on several factors, as some research indicates that xylitol reduces food intake by slowing its passage through the digestive system. Studies also suggest that xylitol contributes to increased production of hormones associated with satiety. Xylitol contains fewer calories than table sugar (sucrose), so choosing products that contain xylitol may help in weight management.

Suitable for Diabetics

Some consider xylitol a suitable sweetener for diabetics because it does not significantly raise blood sugar levels. Choosing xylitol instead of sucrose helps regulate glucose levels in the blood. Some studies suggest that xylitol stimulates the release of the hormone “GLP-1,” which increases insulin levels in the body, aiding in blood sugar control.

Restoring Bowel Function After Surgery

Multiple studies have shown that chewing xylitol gum after surgery restores bowel function. Bowel function includes gas expulsion and bowel sounds and movements. Research indicates that individuals who chew gum three times a day after laparoscopic surgery or a cesarean section expel gas and produce bowel sounds faster than those who do not use gum.

Is Xylitol Safe?

Xylitol is relatively safe, but it has some harmful side effects on the digestive system, such as diarrhea, gas, and bloating.

In animal studies, xylitol has been shown to be toxic to dogs, as dogs secrete a large amount of insulin when consuming xylitol, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels, which can be life-threatening if not treated.