xylitol

noun

xy·​li·​tol ˈzī-lə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a crystalline alcohol C₅H₁₂O₅ that is a derivative of xylose, is obtained especially from birch bark, and is used as a sweetener

Examples of xylitol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The researchers compared people with the highest blood levels of xylitol to those with the lowest and tracked major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as death, heart attack, or stroke. — Lauren Manaker Ms, HEALTH, 8 Sep. 2026

In addition to hydrogen peroxide, these strips contain xylitol, which boosts saliva flow and neutralizes the acids in your mouth that can break down your enamel. — Sara Coughlin, Allure, 8 Sep. 2026

The researchers noted these findings suggest a dose-dependent relationship, meaning the higher the xylitol levels, the higher the cardiovascular event rate. — Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026

Researchers looked at the effects of xylitol, a popular sweetener often added to beverages, oral care products, and chewing gum, on more than 17,000 people. — Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

xylitol

noun

xy·​li·​tol ˈzī-lə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a crystalline alcohol C₅H₁₂O₅ that is a derivative of xylose, is obtained especially from birch bark, and is used as a sweetener