Xylitol is a naturally occurring low-calorie sweetener found in fruits, vegetables and certain hardwoods. Our bodies can produce up to 15 grams of Xylitol per day from the foods we consume. Xylitol produces a lower glycemic response than sucrose or glucose so it has minimal side effects on blood sugar and insulin. It is not as low as erythritol, but some people prefer the taste of Xylitol as compared to erythritol.
Here are some of the Benefits:
1. 40% fewer calories than sugar.
2. Researchers found that kids who consistently chewed Xylitol gum had 40% fewer ear infections than those who did not.
3. Pregnant women benefit from Xylitol to keep their teeth healthy especially during the third trimester, when teeth are especially soft.
4. Eating Xylitol gum or mints stimulates saliva flow. This will protect your teeth because it brings the PH levels close to neutral. (diet soda has a pH 2.2)
5. Reduces tooth decay: If you drink acidic sports drinks frequently, eat carbohydrates often and spend hours dehydrated and breathing through a dry acidic mouth, such as athletes and teenagers, these are risk factors for tooth decay. Xylitol can help.
6. Studies show that a consistent use of at least 6-8 grams if Xylitol daily can reduce cavities as much as 80%. If you already have gum disease or cavities, these problems can be reversed. Regular use of Xylitol can stop things from getting worse (along with a grain-free diet and increased consumption of fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K).
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 TBS minced fresh ginger root
3 TBS organic tamari (soy sauce)
3 TBS natural peanut butter or almond butter
1 1/2 TBS NATURES-HOLLOW xylitol honey
2 tsp hot chile paste (optional)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 head of cabbage
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
Cut cabbage into long noodle-like strips. Combine chicken broth, ginger, tamari sauce, peanut butter, xylitol honey, chili paste, and garlic in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until peanut butter melts and is heated through. Add cabbage "noodles", and toss to coat. Stir fry cabbage until they are soft like noodles. Garnish with green onions and peanuts. Makes 4 servings.
NUTRITIONAL COMPARISON (per serving)
Traditional Peanut Noodles = 330 calories, 12g fat, 47 carbs, 1.9g fiber, 10.7g protein
"Healthified" Peanut Noodles = 160 calories, 12g fat, 8 carbs, 1.8g fiber, 10.1g protein
