What is the Difference Between Sorbitol and Xylitol?

Sorbitol and xylitol are both sugar alcohols used as alternative sweeteners derived from natural sources. They have advantages over regular sugar, as they do not cause cavities, tooth decay, yeast infections, or probiotic disruptions. However, there are some differences between the two:

1. Fermentation: Sorbitol can be fermented to a small degree by cariogenic bacteria, whereas xylitol is not fermented by most cariogenic bacteria.
2. Microbiome effects: Sorbitol has been found to significantly decrease some bacterial species in saliva, while xylitol has not shown the same effect.
3. Oral health benefits: Xylitol creates a healthy film over your teeth that can lock out bacteria and lock in valuable minerals, providing additional protection for your teeth. Sorbitol does not offer these benefits.
4. Caloric content: Both sorbitol and xylitol have fewer calories than sugar, but xylitol has a higher caloric content than sorbitol.
5. Price: Xylitol is generally more expensive than sorbitol.
6. Common uses: Sorbitol is often used as a sweetener in sugar-free gums and candies, while xylitol is mainly used in chewing gum.

In summary, while both sorbitol and xylitol are sugar alcohols with some similar properties, they differ in their effects on the oral microbiome, oral health benefits, caloric content, and price. Xylitol is more effective at inhibiting oral bacteria growth and providing additional protection for teeth, while sorbitol is less expensive and more commonly used in sugar-free gums and candies.

Comparative Table: Sorbitol vs Xylitol

Sorbitol and xylitol are both sugar alcohols used as sweeteners, but they have some differences in their properties and effects. Here is a table comparing the two:

Both sorbitol and xylitol are low-calorie sweeteners and can be used as sugar substitutes, but they differ in their sweetness levels, glycemic index, and potential side effects. They are both effective in maintaining oral health by not promoting tooth decay, but xylitol is considered better for combating mouth bacteria than sorbitol.