When’s the last time you examined the ingredients in your toothpaste? (Go ahead, we’ll wait.) There are plenty of great products on the market today and plenty of not-so-great products. And if you’re holding one of the good ones in your hand, you should see the ingredient xylitol.

 

It might look like just another hard-to-pronounce ingredient, but we consider it an MVP in the world of toothpaste. It can make the difference between a healthy smile and one that’s a little worse for the wear.

 

Here are 7 reasons why you should consider using oral care products that contains xylitol.

 

 

1   IT IS PLANT-BASED

 

Xylitol is a naturally occurring, plant-based compound that is found in fruits and vegetables like corn, strawberries, pumpkins, and plums. The xylitol we use in ELIMS products is vegetable-based. (Sorry, we don’t think it can count as one of your daily servings.)

 

 

2   NO EFFECT ON YOUR BLOOD SUGARS

 

And because xylitol is a natural sweetener, it has a low glycemic index which means it doesn’t make your blood sugars spike, so it is completely compatible for every diet.

 

 

3   FRESHER BREATH LONG AFTER YOU BRUSH

 

Saliva is another reason xylitol is a crucial ingredient. You might not know this, but saliva actually acts as a natural mouthwash. When we use a toothpaste with xylitol, it stimulates the saliva production in our mouths which helps eliminate bad breath and cavities. 

 

 

4   IT’S A GERM FIGHTING MACHINE

 

The mouth is a breeding ground for all sorts of harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and cavities. More specifically, oral bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans (it just sounds like a villain, doesn’t it?) likes to feed on the glucose from leftover food in your teeth. It’s basically what fuels it. But when confronted with xylitol, it essentially cuts off its supply, leaving the bacteria with no energy source and, therefore, no hope of survival.

  

 

5   LOVED BY DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS

 

Ask your dental professional and they will tell you they recommend it and love it - and why wouldn’t they? Xylitol has been proven to give their patients a healthier, happier smile which means happier visits to the office. Win-win!

 

 

6   IT’S USED MORE OFTEN THAN YOU THINK!

Xylitol isn’t only used in toothpaste; check out your favorite chewing gum, it’s likely one of the ingredients. Over the years, it has continued to grow in popularity as a healthier alternative to other sweeteners and is used in various sugar-free candies and treats.

 

 

7   IT TASTES GREAT!

 

Xylitol is a sugar, but not the kind that rots your teeth. Think of it as nature’s sweetener - without the unfortunate side effects of rotting teeth and health problems caused by sugar and other artificial substitutes.

 

 

Our oral health is linked directly with our overall health. And just like our bodies need nutrition, exercise, and TLC, our mouths need and deserve an equal amount of attention. Using a oral care products like toothpaste, mouthwash and chewing gum that contains xylitol is one of the simplest and most effective ways to fight germs, prevent bad breath and cavities, reduce bacteria, and give you an overall naturally healthier smile.

  

Do you use any xylitol products? Share it in the comments below!