Sugar Replacements- Alcohol Sugars: Xylitol

By: Jessica Mattern

Xylitol Sweetener

What Is Xylitol? How Is Xylitol Made?
Xylitol is another popular natural sugar alcohol. It is made by fermenting corn or birch, just like erythritol. Xylitol with birch is a little more accessible than erythritol with birch.
Is Xylitol Keto and Low Carb? Yes! Because it is not absorbed, xylitol is great for keto and low carb diets. It has 0 grams net carbs. In some people a very small amount gets absorbed, but not much.

Xylitol Benefits
One of the biggest advantages of xylitol is that it measures 1:1 like sugar in terms of sweetness. It has no aftertaste and tastes like sugar.
Toothpaste often contains xylitol, because it can actually promote tooth remineralization. Xylitol usually has minimal effects on blood sugar, but does have a slightly larger effect than erythritol.

Xylitol Side Effects
The main possible side effect of xylitol is stomach upset. Unlike erythritol, xylitol does not get absorbed in the small intestine. Instead, it proceeds to the large intestine, and the reaction between the natural bacteria there and the xylitol is what can cause distress. How much varies from person to person. That being said, the gastrointestinal effects of xylitol are not as pronounced as other sugar alcohols like maltitol or sorbitol. I recommend avoiding the latter two completely. Xylitol is fine in moderation.

Xylitol is Dangerous for Dogs
People with dogs in the house may want to avoid keeping xylitol around, because even a small accidentally ingested amount can be lethal for a dog. 

Where To Buy Xylitol
​Unfortunately I have not seen xylitol in grocery stores either. However just like erythritol, you can buy it online.