Whether we want to admit it or not, we are a population of sugar addicts. The average Australian consumes more than 27 teaspoons of sugar daily and the recommended daily intake (according to World Health Organization) for adults with normal BMI is 6 teaspoons. It seems as if we are completely out of control and if we do not do something about it soon, we risk obesity, oral problems and bad eating habits.
Luckily, there is a way to decrease sugar intake without feeling deprived. There are many natural sweeteners that taste better than sugar and have none of the side-effects mentioned. One such is xylitol.
This natural sugar replacement is as sweet as regular sugar, but has considerably less calories than sugar and is way healthier. It belongs to the group of sugar alcohols and is naturally formed in many fruits and vegetables such as oats, sugar cane, berries, mushrooms, etc., however, it can also be extracted from birch trees, corn husks or any other plant that naturally contains xylitol. It is available in the form of crystallized white powder and you can order xylitol Australia wide from almost any reputable and well-equipped online health food shop.
As a complex carbohydrate, xylitol is slowly absorbed in the body; it has no effect on blood sugar or insulin levels making it safe for diabetics to use. It is also a great sugar alternative for people with weight-loss problem. It is low in calories and reduces the risk of obesity, a disease of the modern day which causes digestive problems and slows down the metabolism.
Furthermore, unlike sugar, xylitol improves dental health. The cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar creating strong acids which dissolve minerals from tooth enamel making it weak and vulnerable to cavities. Xylitol helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, therefore minimising the risks of tooth decay and gum disease. Besides having anti-bacterial features, xylitol is widely known for its probiotic properties – it can help boost the production of good bacteria in human body important for metabolic health. Moreover, it can protect bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Some studies even show that this sugar substitute has anti-ageing properties; it can help increase the production of collagen which improves skin elasticity. This finding may be one of the main reasons growing number of women order xylitol Australia wide.
A little bit of sugar won’t hurt, but exceeding recommended sugar intake on a daily basis can increase blood sugar levels, increase risk of cardiovascular disease, and make you frustrated and stressed. It also affects the immune system – it raises the insulin levels and prevents the body from absorbing important minerals and vitamins. Moreover, harmful bacteria and yeast feed on sugar what can create imbalance that makes the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. So, instead of intoxicating your body with sugar, switch to xylitol.
