• It has a positive effect on the teeth
• What else can birch sugar do?

We're hearing more and more about xylitol . It's a kind of substitute for traditional white sugar. Xylitol, also known as birch sugar, is a natural sweetener derived from Finnish birch bark, among other things, but not only. The sweetener is also found in corn cobs, mushrooms, and fruits such as raspberries, plums, and strawberries. It tastes almost indistinguishable from white sugar. However, the difference between one sweetener and another is quite clear. Xylitol contains up to 40% fewer calories and has a much lower glycemic index.

It has a positive effect on the teeth

The properties of xylitol are truly special. First of all, it has the taste, consistency, and color of white sugar, but its effect on teeth is completely opposite. This is the so-called sugar alcohol, and its molecule contains only 5 carbon atoms. Sweeteners like sucrose, fructose, or glucose, which contain six or twelve carbon atoms, pale in comparison.

The low carbon content of birch sugar means it doesn't ferment in the digestive system and can reverse the harmful effects of sugar. Its properties prevent bacteria in the mouth from converting xylitol into acids. This means it helps restore acid-base balance. And the alkaline environment isn't friendly to harmful bacteria, including those responsible for tooth decay. Xylitol's properties don't end there. Birch sugar also strengthens tooth enamel mineralization.

What else can birch sugar do?

Adding xylitol to food and consuming it regularly in small amounts stimulates the salivary glands and strengthens the protective factors in saliva. A sufficient amount of saliva in the mouth is essential for healthy teeth. Saliva naturally protects the teeth, moisturizes the mucous membranes, and helps remove food debris from the oral cavity. In addition, xylitol restores the correct pH and has bactericidal properties.

Birch sugar also supports the body's absorption of calcium, which is important for general dental and bone health. It is recommended for people suffering from osteoporosis-related conditions, as well as for children.

Although it's difficult to completely eliminate harmful glucose, fructose, or sucrose, which are present in many products, our awareness of their harmful effects is growing. For this reason, we read labels more carefully and avoid such products, opting for those containing, for example, birch sugar.