An international study has shown that xylitol significantly increases the risk of serious heart disease and stroke. The all-clear has now been given for the use of oral care products that also contain the substance.
The sugar substitute xylitol is contained in low-calorie foods and drinks. It is recommended for diabetics, for example, because it contains 40 percent fewer calories than conventional sugar and is metabolized almost independently of insulin. Xylitol is also found in toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental care chewing gum because the sweetener effectively combats caries bacteria.
So is there a risk of cardiac events when using certain toothpastes and chewing gums? The Information Center for Dental and Oral Health (IZZ) in Baden-Württemberg asked experts.
Prof. Dr. Elmar Hellwig (Freiburg) and Prof. Dr. Adrian Lussi (Innsbruck and Bern) have now given the all-clear. The xylitol content in toothpastes and dental care chewing gum is so low that the associated risk potential for cardiovascular disease is not significant. In addition, toothpastes, dental care chewing gum and mouthwashes are not swallowed, so the remaining xylitol content in the mouth after spitting out does not affect general health.
