XylitolIntroductionXylitol is a natural sugar found in plums, strawberries, and raspberries. It is often used as a sweetener to replace sugar. Xylitol has been used to kill harmful bacteria in the mouth and prevent ear infections. It can be chewed as a gum or taken as a syrup. Xylitol can also be taken as a powder or added to toothpaste. It can also be injected into the bloodstream by a healthcare provider. Dosages4 to 10 grams daily What Research ShowsLikely Effective
Not Enough Data to Assess
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process. Safety NotesIt is likely safe to use xylitol and to take xylitol products orally in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It may also not be safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Interactions Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse. References►A. Cavities A1. Riley P, Moore D, et al. Xylitol-containing products for preventing dental caries in children and adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(3):CD010743. A2. Marghalani AA, Guinto E, et al. Effectiveness of Xylitol in Reducing Dental Caries in Children. Pediatr Dent. 2017;39(2):103-110. A3. Wang Y, Li J, et al. Effect of non-fluoride agents on the prevention of dental caries in primary dentition: A systematic review. PLoS One. 2017 Aug 7;12(8):e0182221. B. Ear infection B1. Azarpazhooh A, Lawrence HP, et al. Xylitol for preventing acute otitis media in children up to 12 years of age. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;(8):CD007095. Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board
Eric Hurwitz, DC Last Updated: 3/26/2020 | |
EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation. This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition. To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days. | |