“Xylitol naturally sweetens the gum, and prevents bacteria from binding ... one ingredient to consider for bad breath is zinc. These zinc salts quickly and thoroughly get rid of the sulfur ...

(For more on zinc's benefits, see b.link/eexcawg.) DEAR DR. BLONZ: Often, when having sugarless gum or mints ... or a similar synthetic sweetener, xylitol, should limit their intake or consume ...

Case in point: xylitol, the sugar substitute that's used in a lot of low-calorie foods. Consumers with diabetes and those trying to lose weight choose artificial sweeteners to safeguard their health.