Xylitol
A sugar alcohol sweetener that closely resembles sugar in look and taste. Provides fewer calories than sugar, but excess amounts upset the gut and it is toxic to dogs.
What Is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) sweetener that can be obtained from plant sources such as birch trees and from corn cobs, and is also naturally found in nature. Its white crystalline appearance and taste closely resemble table sugar.
It gives a sweetness close to sugar but contains fewer calories per gram and affects blood sugar less. It leaves a slight cooling sensation in the mouth, which is why it is also used in gum and dental care products.
Nutritional Values of Xylitol
Xylitol, as a sugar alcohol, provides approximately 240 kcal (~2.4 kcal per gram) of energy per 100 grams; this is lower than table sugar. Its glycemic impact is low and it contains no fat.
How Should Xylitol Be Used?
Since excessive consumption of xylitol can cause gas, bloating, and looseness in the intestines, moderate use is recommended. It is also severely toxic to dogs; xylitol and products containing it must be kept away from pets.
This information is general; xylitol is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. It should be kept away from dogs and consumed in moderation.
How to Choose Xylitol
Good xylitol is a product that is dry, free-flowing, and not clumped, in white crystal form; moistened and clumped samples are not preferred. Having no additives listed in the ingredients is good.
- Crystals should be dry, white, and lump-free
- Moisture and clumping are undesirable
- Additive-free product should be preferred
How to Store Xylitol
Xylitol keeps for a long time in a sealed jar in a dry place; since moisture causes clumping, it should be kept dry. It is important to store it out of reach of pets.
Using Xylitol in the Kitchen
Xylitol is used at a ratio close to sugar to sweeten drinks, desserts, and baked goods; since it is heat-stable, it is also used in cooking. In yeast-raised doughs, since it does not feed the yeast like sugar does, the recipe is adjusted accordingly.
How Is Xylitol Used Instead of Sugar?
In most recipes it is used at a ratio close to (roughly 1:1) sugar; however, considering that excess amounts may upset the intestines, the quantity is kept moderate and adjusted to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is xylitol toxic to dogs?
Xylitol can cause serious reactions in dogs, making it dangerous for them; therefore, xylitol and products containing it (including gum) must be kept away from pets.
Does xylitol break down when cooking?
It is relatively heat-stable and can be used in cooking; however, since it does not caramelize like sugar, the result may differ slightly in some recipes.
Why does xylitol feel cooling in the mouth?
As a sugar alcohol that absorbs heat when it dissolves, it leaves a slight cooling sensation in the mouth; this property makes it favored in gum and mint products.