Can the body metabolise Xylitol?

Yes, but in a very different way to sugar as Xylitol’s unique five-carbon molecular structure, unlike six-carbon sugars, actually inhibits the ability of our bodies to fully metabolise it. The direct result is that Xylitol is metabolised by the body very slowly, meaning it does not require insulin and it releases energy steadily, rather than with highs and lows.  It is for this reason that it has a low GI of just seven, making it an option for those looking to monitor their blood-sugar levels.