ABSTRACT
Modern lifestyle and intake of high-calorie food is a major cause of many metabolic and inflammatory disorders. Consuming nutraceuticals is an alternative to improve our health. Today, consumption of high-calorie sweeteners has increased at a distressing rate and to lessen the impact, use of sugars in confectionaries and other foods has been replaced by artificial sweeteners. However, artificial sweeteners, in the long run, have exhibited serious side effects and are therefore being replaced by natural sweeteners. Polyols like sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol are potential natural sweeteners that are present in fruits and vegetables. Among these, xylitol seemed to be an excellent candidate in providing parenteral nutrition. It is also beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, pulmonary infection, otitis media, and osteoporosis. This molecule is very promising in preventing dental caries and possesses excellent immune modulating potential. This chapter reviews the immune-related activities of xylitol and its beneficial aspects to human health.
