The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) (Guwahati) recently introduced a fermentation method that produces safe sugar. The sugar substitute is produced from sugarcane waste called “Xylitol. Prof. V.S. Moholkar leads the research team. He claims that the ultrasound will shorten the fermentation process by 15 hours.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is natural sugar alcohol obtained from plants. It is obtained from fruits and vegetables. It has a sweet taste, and Xylitol’s main purpose is to use as a sugar substitute. It is sweet but does not contain unhealthy sugar. This is the only reason why it is becoming popular.
It is formed by a combination of natural sugar molecules and alcohol molecules. It forms after a chemical reaction. It can be found in normal sugar-free chewing gums, candies, mints, and other diabetes-friendly foods and products, especially oral care. Natural sugar is antibiotic and anti-microbial, essential for diabetic patients and people suffering from obesity.
What are the applications of Xylitol?
Xylitol has become a worldwide and essential ingredient on the menu today. It contains a similar sweetness level as sugar but has several benefits. It is used in several ways and in many sweet products such as yoghurt, nut butter, peanut butter, honey, jams, jelly etc. It is also important in dental care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and other fluoride products.
What are the advantages of using natural sugar?
- A boost to dental health
Many dentists recommend natural sweet products instead of unhealthy sugar. Xylitol boosts dental health and helps in preventing tooth decay. It is essential for the body, as the intake of Xylitol kills harmful bacteria. It also helps absorb calcium in the digestive system and strengthens the teeth.
- Infections of the ears
Most infections are caused by tooth plaque that accumulates behind the ear drum and middle ear. According to the technical term, the infection is known as Acute Otitis Media (AOM). Any syrup containing Xylitol can reduce the risk of Acute Otitis Media (AOM) from 22 to 30%.
- Antioxidant properties
According to the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health, free radicals cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress leads to cell damage and can cause severe diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. As per laboratory studies, it is stated that antioxidants can neutralise free radicals, which later counteract oxidative stress. Xylitol consists of antioxidant properties that prevent people from such diseases.
Side effects of Xylitol
It is suggested not to give Xylitol to animals. Especially for dogs, it is not safe for them and is considered toxic. If there is any contact with Xylitol, the animal should be treated by the nearest veterinarian.
On the one hand, it is suitable for dental health and diseases like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular. On the other hand, it is not recommended for those with digestive issues, such as bloating or diarrhoea.
