One of the arguments I hear most often concerning the low-carb lifestyle is how it's hurting my bones. Along with the "exploding kidneys" myth, and the "sky-high cholesterol" myth, the "your bones are going to turn to dust" argument seems to pop up frequently when well meaning acquaintances and friends are trying to turn me to the low-fat (aka "dark") side. I don't have the heart to tell them that my lap band has more potential to break my hip than the good high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carb diet I follow ever would.
The placement of the band itself actually interferes with the body's ability to take in some nutrients, like vitamin B12, and it also can block calcium absorption. Now, as a gastric-banded low-carb dieter, I have another weapon in my anti-osteoporosis arsenal: Xylitol.
I have made reference to the specific sites that show the positive effects of Xylitol on bone health on my Examiner page. It's a great artificial sweetener, one that I combine with Splenda and erythritol when I bake. (Especially when using chocolate - Splenda used alone in a chocolate dessert tastes bitter and woody. Aaargh.)
Xylitol doesn't seem to have as many ... um ... " tummy troubles " associated with it as do maltitol and sorbitol.
It is used in gum to kill the bacteria that cause cavities and ear and throat infections in children.
It is used in nasal sprays to prevent sinus infections.
It helps to prevent bone loss in post-menopausal women, and actually helps to strengthen bones.
All of this, and almost half the calories of sugar. It doesn't mess with blood glucose levels. It looks like sugar. It measures like sugar. And best of all, it tastes like sugar.
Does it contain carb? Yes, half the grams of sugar alcohols are counted as carbs. Am I going to sit in a pile of Xylitol and pour it down my throat by the shovelful? Of course not. I only do that with bacon.
I have made reference to the specific sites that show the positive effects of Xylitol on bone health on my Examiner page. It's a great artificial sweetener, one that I combine with Splenda and erythritol when I bake. (Especially when using chocolate - Splenda used alone in a chocolate dessert tastes bitter and woody. Aaargh.)
Xylitol doesn't seem to have as many ... um ... " tummy troubles " associated with it as do maltitol and sorbitol.
It is used in gum to kill the bacteria that cause cavities and ear and throat infections in children.
It is used in nasal sprays to prevent sinus infections.
It helps to prevent bone loss in post-menopausal women, and actually helps to strengthen bones .
All of this, and almost half the calories of sugar. It doesn't mess with blood glucose levels. It looks like sugar. It measures like sugar. And best of all, it tastes like sugar.
Does it contain carb? Yes, half the grams of sugar alcohols are counted as carbs. Am I going to sit in a pile of Xylitol and pour it down my throat by the shovelful? Of course not. I only do that with bacon.
The Bionic Broad out.