Issues Associated With Common Sugar Alcohols

bacteria in the mouth. Xylitol has been found to inhibit oral bacteria, and is often used in sugarless mints and chewing gums for this reason. Research has shown that regular chewing of gum containing xylitol showed up to 60% reduction in tooth decay when compared to controls. The other positive report for diabetics is reduced blood sugar and insulin responses to xylitol consumption when compared to sugar.

One area for concern with regard to xylitol is its use with animals, specifically at this stage dogs. A recent report in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) reported that sugar-free dog treats containing xylitol have caused liver failure and in a small number of instances death 3. Based on this report, it is advisable for pet owners to avoid giving their dogs’ xylitol containing treats.

Foods containing sugar alcohols are increasingly available due to the trend in diet, low carb and diabetic foods. Based on the research completed to write this article sugar alcohols are not without issue. Consumers, particularly diabetics need to keep in mind total daily consumption of sugar alcohols and those experiencing ongoing digestive upset would do well to completely eliminate them from their diets. Of course, sugar alcohols are definitely out for dogs and possibly other pets as well.

Finally, while sugar may be responsible or partially so for many of modern society’s health complaints, it is a natural substance that we have been consuming for thousands of years. While we eat far too much of it, sugar is part of our evolutionary history. On the other hand sugar alcohols have only been used in recent times. The effects of long term use, beneficial or otherwise are not known. As such, moderation is recommended when including sugar alcohols as part of your diet.

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