Dear Dr. Ellie:
I was so happy to read that xylitol remineralzies teeth. But I read somewhere else that it also remineralizes bones in those who have osteoporosis. Can you please give me more information on this?
SGK
Dear SGK,
I promote xylitol for its dental health properties, but I do know doctors who promote xylitol for its positive effects on health.
I believe xylitol has an effect on calcium absorption but there are no clinical trials that I am aware of.
The dental research has been reviewed by evidence based evaluation and found to be clinically significant.
The medical benefits are not supported by this kind of research yet.
Based on what I have read (mostly unsupported) a higher dosage is needed to help reverse osteoporosis.
20 grams a day was the number that I read but this would need to be added slowly into the diet of someone not used to consuming xylitol. I would suggest someone with osteoporosis avoid artificial sweeteners and cut out or replace white sugar with xylitol or stevia.
Many patients with osteoporosis show concurrent dental problems associated with acidic saliva. They have symptoms of sensitive or weak teeth and the onset of gum disease.
I would recommend these patients use xylitol as a dental therapy. I would also recommend they use my complete mouth care system to build the strength of their tooth enamel and reverse periodontal and gum problems.
I am convinced that dental health and general health are intimately related. Curing dental problems and achieving oral health can be the first step to better general health. Xylitol would be an ally for achieving this first step and maybe also an ally to help reverse osteoporosis.
I hope this answers your question,
Ellie Phillips
Dental Health for Everyone!
26, Corporate Woods
Rochester NY 14623
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