Xylitol?

Several people have asked me about Xylitol. As I began researching it, I found that it is used in my "Tom's of Maine" toothpaste. Hmm-m-m. So I continued researching it. This month, The magazine from Marlene's Health Food Store has an article about Xylitol for oral health! See below: Xylitol is a sugar alcohol found in numerous plants, fruits, and vegetables, and is naturally produced by the body - up to 15 grams daily. Equal in sweetness and volume to table sugar, xylitol is a low calorie sweetener. It's also available in chewing gums, mints, toothpastes, and other products. Research supports using xylitol to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Since bacteria cannot use xylitol to grow, fewer cavities decay causing bacteria survive on the tooth's surface over time, reducing plaque formation. And, it's not just teeth! Poor oral health has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer s disease, obesity and various types of cancer.

Yerba Mate?

Yerba mate is an herbal infusion. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, E, B complex, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, manganese, phosphates, chlorophyll, hydrochloric acid, pantothenic acid and choline.

Not For Indoors!

Never use a barbecue grill, propane camp stove or any cook stove not approved for interior use inside your home. These stoves replace oxygen in the air with carbon monoxide. When used in a closed space, the results can be fatal.

Antibiotics 101

If you do have a bacterial infection and are prescribed antibiotics to treat it. It is important to take the antibiotic exactly as instructed. Do not skip doses and take the entire prescribed course even if you start feeling better.

Be Careful to Take Antibiotics Only When and How the Doctor Prescribes

Antibiotics should only be taken if prescribed by your physician for a bacterial infection. They do not work for a viral infection such as a cold, cough or the flu. Taking an antibiotic when you don't need it can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Food Borne Illness?

If you suspect you have a food-borne illness, contact your local health department. Calls from concerned citizens are often the way outbreaks are first detected.

Be Kind to Your Kids' Teeth!

Decrease risk of tooth decay by practicing good oral hygiene and decreasing consumption of sugar and starch containing food and beverages.