People who have diabetes sometimes use xylitol as a sugar substitute. Blood sugar stays at a more constant level with xylitol than with regular sugar.
Some gum or oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, also contain xylitol. Mouth bacteria can't use it for energy, so this may help prevent tooth decay.
Researchers have studied using xylitol in children who have frequent earaches to prevent middle ear inflammation (otitis media). More studies are needed to confirm it’s effective.