I give my kids nutritious food when I can; that doesn’t mean they never have chips or ice cream. But a few foods, like gummy bears, are strictly prohibited (for now at least, and for as long as I can get away with it) in this household. I’ve heard that gummy foods like that can do a real number on little teeth because they stick so well.

I may have to rethink my anti-gummy stance in the future. Investigators are checking into whether sugarless gummy bears containing xylitol can actually help prevent cavities in children.

Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in various berries, corn, birch and other plant sources. Research has shown that the sugar substitute reduces levels of mutans streptococci (MS) bacteria, which are known to cause cavities.

Is there hope, then, that candy might actually become a cavity-fighting ally? All I know is that if they make a good-for-your-teeth Milk Dud, I’m there.

Posted by Sunshine.