At REFRESH Gum, we believe that what goes into your gum matters. That’s why we’re committed to using natural, plant-based sweeteners like xylitol and stevia instead of artificial additives such as aspartame, acesulfame K, sucralose, sorbitol, maltitol, or others. Not only do xylitol and stevia provide a clean, refreshing taste, but they also align with our mission to keep our gum free from synthetic ingredients. In this blog, we’ll explore how xylitol and stevia contribute to a better chewing experience, their natural origins, and why they’re healthier choices for you and the planet.
What Are Xylitol and Stevia?
Xylitol and stevia are both natural sweeteners derived from plants, making them ideal alternatives to artificial sweeteners. While aspartame and acesulfame K are synthetically produced and can carry controversial health impacts, xylitol and stevia offer sweetness without the need for chemicals or artificial processing.
- Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in many fruits, vegetables, and even birch trees. Extracted primarily from plants like birch and corn, it has been used as a low-calorie sweetener for decades. What makes xylitol unique is its ability to prevent the growth of certain bacteria, making it an ideal choice for gum.
- Stevia, on the other hand, is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. Known for its intensely sweet flavor, stevia is calorie-free and has been used as a natural sweetener for centuries by indigenous communities. Its leaves contain compounds called steviol glycosides, which provide sweetness without adding calories or impacting blood sugar.
A Healthier, Natural Sweetness
- No Artificial Ingredients: Aspartame and acesulfame K are artificial sweeteners commonly found in many sugar-free gums. While they provide sweetness, they’re chemically derived and have been linked to health concerns over the years. By choosing xylitol and stevia, REFRESH Gum ensures a cleaner, plant-based sweetness that’s free from synthetic additives.
- Oral Health Benefits: Xylitol isn’t just a sweetener—it actively promotes oral health. Xylitol has been shown to reduce levels of bacteria that cause cavities, particularly Streptococcus mutans. By inhibiting the growth of these bacteria, xylitol helps to protect your teeth, making REFRESH Gum a healthier choice for your mouth. Xylitol’s cavity-fighting properties are one of the reasons why it’s often recommended by dentists as an alternative to traditional sugars.
- Low Glycemic Impact: Both xylitol and stevia have minimal impact on blood sugar, making them ideal for those looking to reduce sugar intake or manage blood sugar levels. Xylitol has a glycemic index (GI) of around 7, while stevia has a GI of zero, meaning neither causes rapid spikes in blood sugar. This is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes or anyone following a low-glycemic diet.
- Calorie Conscious: Xylitol contains fewer calories than regular sugar, and stevia is entirely calorie-free, offering sweetness without the extra energy intake. For those mindful of calorie consumption, xylitol and stevia offer the perfect balance of taste and health.
The Natural Origins of Xylitol and Stevia
Both xylitol and stevia have a long history rooted in nature:
- Xylitol’s Origins: While xylitol has been used in food products since the mid-20th century, its roots are much older. Early forms of xylitol were identified in plants, fruits, and vegetables, but it was first extracted from birch trees in Finland in the 1940s. Finnish researchers discovered xylitol’s cavity-preventing properties, which quickly made it a popular choice in oral care products. Today, xylitol is harvested sustainably from both birch and corn, providing a natural, low-calorie sweetener that’s safe for teeth.
- Stevia’s South American Heritage: The native Guaraní people of Paraguay and Brazil have used stevia leaves for centuries to sweeten herbal teas and medicines. Known as “sweet herb” or kaa hee, stevia has been an important part of their culture and cuisine. Modern extraction techniques have made stevia’s sweetness more accessible, and today it’s widely used as a natural alternative to sugar worldwide. Its leaves are up to 200 times sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed to deliver sweetness, making it an efficient and sustainable sweetener.
Why We Choose Xylitol and Stevia Over Artificial Sweeteners
Using xylitol and stevia allows REFRESH Gum to stay true to our mission of offering a clean, natural chewing experience. While artificial sweeteners may be common in many gums, we believe in keeping things simple, natural, and plant-based. Here’s why:
- Transparency: By choosing plant-based ingredients, we ensure that you know exactly what you’re consuming. Our gum contains no hidden artificial additives, giving you a product you can feel confident about.
- Support for Natural Ingredients: Many artificial sweeteners are derived from petrochemicals, which can have significant environmental impacts. By using xylitol and stevia, we’re promoting ingredients that come directly from plants, aligning with our commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly sourcing.
- A Pure, Refreshing Taste: Xylitol and stevia complement each other to provide a balanced, clean sweetness that enhances the flavors in REFRESH Gum without any artificial aftertaste. You’ll notice a refreshing flavor that’s smooth and natural—just as it should be.
A Sweet Chew for You and the Planet
At REFRESH Gum, we believe in making choices that benefit both our consumers and the environment. Our use of xylitol and stevia not only provides a cleaner, healthier alternative to artificial sweeteners but also reflects our commitment to natural ingredients. When you chew REFRESH Gum, you’re enjoying a gum that’s better for your health, better for your teeth, and better for the planet.
Make the Natural Choice with REFRESH Gum
Choosing REFRESH means choosing a gum that’s free from artificial additives and made with the goodness of plant-based ingredients. With every chew, you’re enjoying a sweet, refreshing taste from sources that are as clean and natural as you’d want them to be. Say goodbye to artificial sweeteners and hello to a gum made with nature’s best. With REFRESH Gum, you’re making a choice that tastes good and feels good, too—naturally.
