The danger of consuming this carbohydrate is kept at a minimum, although over consumption of this element can lead to some damaging effects. It is a sugar substitute that is found in plant matter like vegetables and fruits, and is extracted from birch wood when manufacturing medicines. Even humans produce this substance when one's metabolism comes into the picture, where up to 15 grams of this is evident in our systems. It is available now in toothpastes, mouth sprays, mouthwashes and chewing gum. Sorbitol which is also a sugar substitute, was an easier substance to incorporate into items being much cheaper than manufacturing xylitol products. Xylitol has many benefits tagged to the frequency of its use, where many swear by its effects, although many have come forward with complaints due to the side effects. Although it has been clear to aid one in different problematic areas, the downside of using this in abundant portions has caused the body to reject extra amounts of this substance. What Side Effects Should I be on the Lookout for? Is xylitol dangerous? Yes it is, to a certain degree, depending on how one uses this substance in everyday routine. The dangers of overindulging oneself with the use of xylitol can lead to the following reactions.

• There are some people who are given xylitol through intravenous means, where high levels of this are transported into the body, causing an increase in uric acid levels thus leaving one susceptible to suffering from kidney stones.
• Some people can witness the onset of some allergic reactions, which is rare but still something to look out for.
  • A case of hives.
  • Wheezing problems.
  • Mouth sores are a possible occurrence.
  • Excessive itching.
  • Evidence of rashes.
  • Throat / mouth starts to swell.
• Not able to breathe easily
• Can lead to liver problems due to stress upon this organ caused by the constant use of xylitol.
• Acts as a laxative, therefore it can, in high doses, lead up to problems like gas and diarrhea.
• Can lead to high acid levels in the blood.
• When it comes to dogs, this substance is proven to be pretty harmful (in any dose) where it causes their blood sugar to drop (hypoglycemia) dangerously low upon ingestion (more than two pieces of chewing gum with xylitol in it can then lead to liver failure).

You'd need to slowly increase dosage levels to help the body get accustomed to it without subjecting it to its use without warning. There are chewing gums that have small traces of xylitol in them, where these are appropriate for consumption being an amount that doesn't pose as a threat. Xylitol Dosage Instructions Xylitol is known for its benefits which are taken advantage of by those who have switched to this healthier alternative from regular sugar. The makers of this sweetener state that sugar leads one to suffer from obesity, weight issues and is a problem for diabetics. To counter these trouble areas, they've put forward an alternative that doesn't convert itself into fat, leading the body to not take the hit when absorbing this. Xylitol is mainly used for the following ways. Ear Infections Children who suffer from ear infections are advised to stick to dosage levels of about 8.4 - 10g daily until it clears. It is also available in syrup form which is given daily during five different times of the day, in small doses. Even chewing gum or candy can be given if not the syrup. It is taken after meals and can be given to both older kids and preschoolers. Dental Problems It helps prevent tooth decay and doesn't have the degrading effects of regular sugar. Those who wish to control the problems of tooth decay can take this substance in either lozenge, gum, candy or syrup form - five times a day, or three in some cases depending on one's preference. It cannot completely wipe out the problems of tooth decay but it can keep it under control and not fuel it. Doses recommended here range from 7 - 20g. The xylitol dangers are those that don't commonly arise, although one has to be careful when ingesting these. It is important to slowly start on smaller dosage counts of 2 times a day, gradually taking it up to 3 and then 5 as time lapses. Consult a doctor about how to take these, since you may have to be a hundred percent sure that while using them, the effects don't crop up. If you notice any allergic reactions, it is of utmost importance to stop using xylitol completely. Have a safe tomorrow.