Xylitol Side Effects?

[jen1975]

So, I was wondering if other people have the same issue with xylitol as I do?  Everytime I've used it (usually in my coffee) it gives me really loose stools.  I was wondering since it's used in so many recipes here in the desserts if that decreases if it's cooked with?  It affects my husband the same way.  Or does your body get used to it?  I'm kinda not complaining, it fixes the other problem I've been having since I started my new lifestyle (constipation).   Just wondering about everyone else's experience with it.

[joagain]

How much do you use in your coffee ?

[jen1975]

Usually just 1 spoonful...

[umpa]

Jen I don't use it for coffee,I only use it for baking and cooking.The conversion is usually 1/2 to 1/3 of the amount of sugar.(This changes depending on the other ingredients in recipe.)I use stevia for coffee.

[mouseissue]

Hi Jen!

Like Umpa, I only use xylitol in cooking.
If I want to sweeten a drink, also like Umpa, I'll use stevia.

Like Doug warns in his book, sugar alcohols (like xylitol) can have that effect (and MUCH worse).
Having it in a hot liquid like coffee would accelerate the effects.
However, cooking with them somewhat diminishes these effects.
But you still must be careful.

Personally, I've learned to enjoy my coffee black.
My wife likes to add a splash of SF Coffee Mate.
Be careful with this stuff as it has 2 net carbs per tablespoon.

There is also the option of adding SF Torani flavored syrups.
These are 0 carb.

[jen1975]

I haven't had good luck with Stevia yet; all the brands I've tried have a funky aftertaste.  And it's good to know the effect is decreased in baking; I was kinda scared to try any of the cooking recipes that had it in it (and I didn't want to do too much Splenda).  Thanks all!

[Mimzy]

Jen I use some SF chocolate Torani and heavy cream in my coffee.  It tastes like mocha just don't use too much syrup.

[skychant]

I baked a pumpkin pie earlier this year with xylitol.  Needless to say it was so good I ate two slices.  If you eat more than the recomended serving size expect to make a trip to the bathroom. 

[beth823]

Anyone have a solution to the constipation issue?   I drink about 1/2 gal of water typically

[mouseissue]

Anyone have a solution to the constipation issue?  I drink about 1/2 gal of water typically

Hi Beth!

If not doing so already, add walking 30-60 minutes per day to your exercise routine.
Walking, among many other great things, does wonders for the digestive tract.
Also, be sure you're eating plenty of green high fiber veggies like spinach, lettuce, celery, broccoli, etc..

In addition, you could also add more fiber by taking fiber supplements like Metamucil.
If you opt for fiber supplements, drink as much water as you can each day as water helps them work.

[jen1975]

Thanks for those suggestions Tony.  I seem to be getting used to the xylitol.  Unfortunately my poor husband on the other hand.... I baked the cobbler recipe and he had 1 serving and spent the whole next several hours suffering the side effects.  Sorry honey!