Xylitol Studied for Weight Management

Xylitol was recently shown to modulate lipid (fat) metabolism. Xylitol is a naturally occurring 5-carbon sugar alcohol that can be used as a sugar substitute. Unlike most sugars, xylitol has previously been shown to support oral health. Previous research has also indicated that the xylitol metabolite xylulose-5-phosphate modulates gene transcription for lipid-forming enzymes and carbohydrate responsive element-binding protein (ChREBP), which is a key regulator of glucose metabolism and fat storage.

Rats in this study were fed a high-fat diet. Some of the rats were also supplemented with xylitol at a dose of either 1 gram per 100 kcal or 2 grams per 100 kcal. After 8 weeks, the rats were evaluated for visceral (abdominal) fat mass, plasma insulin levels, and lipid levels. Additionally, the rats were assessed for enzyme levels involved in lipid metabolism and levels of ChREBP.

The study showed that the rats fed the high-fat diet plus xylitol had healthier levels of visceral fat, plasma insulin, and lipids compared to the rats fed the high-fat diet alone. In addition, xylitol supplementation resulted in higher gene expression of ChREBP and lipogenic (fat-forming) enzymes. Also, rats supplemented with xylitol showed higher expression of fatty acid oxidation-related genes (genes that code for enzymes that use fatty acids for energy), while sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c was lower, which is involved with the production of fatty acids.

The study authors concluded that xylitol may be beneficial in supporting healthy weight and metabolism in rats with diet-induced weight gain.

Reference:

Amo K, Arai H, Uebanso T, Fukaya M, Koganei M, Sasaki H, Yamamoto H, Taketani Y, Takeda E. Effects of xylitol on metabolic parameters and visceral fat accumulation. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2011 Jul;49(1):1-7.