Commonly known as wood sugar, D-xylose is often used as a food additive in flavor and pet food industries. Combined with certain amino acids in controlled concentration, time, temperature and acidity levels, xylose is used for flavor enhancement by a chemical reaction called the Maillard Reaction. Flavors such as roast beef, roast pork, boiled meat, chicken and baked potato can be developed. D-xylose is also used to create the golden brown color in many baked goods to give them an appealing appearance.
Along with 7 other essential sugars, D-xylose is needed for the well-maintained health and functions in the body. It has both anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Recent research shows that D-xylose may even be help prevent cancer in the digestive system. It is a great sugar substitute for chewing gum, toothpaste and corn sweeteners. Unlike sucrose, the naturally occurring simple sugar, D-xylose does not promote cavities and has fewer calories. For many diabetics, D-xylose or its commercial derivative, xylitol, is a very suitable sweetener substitution.
In addition to its role as a food additive or sweetener, D-xylose is administered to test if nutrients are absorbed properly. Patients are asked to fast for 8 – 12 hours and then drink a specified amount of D-xylose dissolved in water. A blood sample is then taken 2 hours later and a urine sample is taken 8 hours later. If D-xylose is detected in blood or urine, this is a positive result and this means that it has been absorbed into the intestines. The D-xylose absorption test is especially useful to in determining if nutrition absorption problems are due to disease of the intestines or the pancreas.
References: (1)http//:www.danisco.com.cms/connect/corporate products%20and%20services/product%20range/s
weeteners/d%20xylose/d_xylose_en.htm
(2)http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003606.htm(3) http://www.glyconutrient.biz/xylose.htm
