getting enough xylitol

[splotchy1]

I've gotten some xylitol in different forms, but I'm not effectively getting enough of it into my kids to help their teeth. I've only ever offered my kids milk/ water/diluted juice to drink- no sodas, koolaid, etc.

But, it just dawned on me. I could actually make kooliad with xylitol instead of sugar. What do you think? Good idea? Bad idea since it is still koolaid with the dyes and all? The kids would definitely get more xylitol washing over their teeth.

[luv2bamommy2]

I hadn't thought about the dyes, etc. but I do know when we started out giving my ds Xylitol we were told to out a little at a time, or he would have diarrhea. But the candies and gum taste sooooo good, it was - and still is - hard to give just a little.

But over a year he can now take up to 10 grams without getting the 'runs.'

Each person - adult or child - needs only 6 to 10 grams per day. And 1 tsp of the granular = 4 grams. So if you brushed your children's teeth, or they did, with a tsp of Xylitol in 1 Tablespoon of water twice a day they'd be getting 8 grams. But build up to it.

Anyway, it's a thought.

[lindberg99]

I wonder if kool-aid or another drink would be in contact with their teeth long enough though. I think you're supposed to chew the gum at least 5 min or something aren't you?