How to Prevent Cavities Using Xylitol, a natural sweetener

Many people have never heard of xylitol. Well, if you haven't, this is a great secret I'd like to share! Xylitol prevents the bacteria that cause cavities to stick to the tooth's surface, thus preventing cavities from starting. The great thing about xylitol, is that it's sweet! So you can have your cake and eat it, too!!!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Xylitol Sweetener(available in bulk at health food stores, or online)
• Xylitol packets (to use on the go, and to use like sugar or artificial sweetener in your coffee or tea)
• Xylitol toothpaste (Tom's of Maine is a popular brand that uses xylitol)

1. Switch your toothpaste to one containing xylitol (and that of your family, especially kids).
2. Use xylitol to sweeten your favorite beverage. Since sodas and popular beverages do not contain xylitol, try to avoid those items and make your own iced tea with xylitol or lemonade with xylitol, and keep a pitcher in the fridge. Encourage kids to drink these beverages, at least twice a day. Drink as much as you want!
3. Keep xylitol packets in your purse or pocket for when you travel. Every time you would use sugar or a sugar-substitute, use the xylitol instead, which tastes just like sugar!
4. Use online resources to find xylitol and xylitol recipes. Xylitol is great as a sweetener in baked goods; I have tried it successfully in chocolate cake and chocolate-chip cookies! Imagine eating sweets that prevent cavities!!! (AND don't have a strange after-taste!)

Tips & Warnings

• Xylitol is commonly used in countries like Japan, as a sugar substitute.
• There are xylitol candies available for kids to have as treats! YUMMY and good for them!
• Xylitol is also great in the prevention of sinus infections... read up on this on the internet!
• DO NOT give xylitol or xylitol-containing products to pets, especially dogs. Dogs cannot break it down and can get harmed from it. (You wouldn't give Equal or Splenda to dogs either... those are toxic to them as well)
• Very rarely, a person can have an allergy to xylitol. If you develop a rash after eating it, or other adverse effects, consult a doctor and avoid it in the future.