What are the differences between xylitol and fructose?
They are both nutritive sweeteners, however xylitol is not classed as a sugar like fructose because of its 5-carbon structure (fructose has a 6-carbon structure). The metabolism of xylitol is mostly insulin-independent, whereas that of fructose is not (the GI of xylitol is 7, compared to 23 for fructose). Fructose can be metabolised by harmful bacteria and is as cariogenic as sugar, whereas xylitol cannot be metabolised by harmful bacteria in the mouth and gut because of its 5-carbon structure. Xylitol protects the mouth against plaque and tooth decay, and helps keep the natural flora balance in the gut by allowing friendly bacteria to flourish.
