Is there a natural sugar that doesn’t promote tooth decay?
Yes, Xylitol. It comes from the birch tree and is considered a “wood sugar” – much like the maple syrup that comes from the maple tree. But unlike maple syrup, this sugar has a crystal structure that makes it the perfect sugar substitute. Xylitol has a 5-carbon molecular structure that does not interact with oral bacteria. Since it doesn’t ferment, it never triggers acid production. That means it helps reduce tooth decay, inhibits plaque buildup, retards the loss of tooth enamel, and lowers infections in the mouth and throat. And because it inhibits plaque buildup, xylitol also helps prevent heart disease. Xylitol is affordable and easy to find. Check your local health food store or find it on the Internet. Along with stevia, xylitol is one of the safest and best-tasting sugar substitutes.
