Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide secreted by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris.
Xanthan gum is a sugar derived typically from corn (can also be from soy or wheat) that has been pooped out by a bacteria that produces rot on various vegetables. Yup, you heard me correctly friends.
so, what say? do you want to eat this now?
It is a common ingredient used in everyday items like toothpaste, medicines, supplements, protein powders(Healthy?) various condiments like Salad dressing, ALL ICECREAMS, cosmetics.
I would say if it is packaged, it contains xanthan gum. Why you might ask? It is a great thickener–it has the properties perfect for creating a food that binds well and is stabilized.
if you are gluten intolerant and are on a gluten-free diet you must avoid this!
Its a sugar and if you are diabetic you are messing up.
Here is how it is made. It is produced through the mingling of sugar derived from corn and a bacteria that creates black spots on many vegetables like broccoli.
The fermentation process of the two ingredients (the sugar and bacteria) creates this slimy substance which is then dried up and made into a powder form that you see on store shelves.
it causes gastric upset
Diarrhea/ Loose motion
Irritable bowel
All that Gluten corn-soy allergy can cause
Can contribute to leaky gut
All chronic lifestyle diseases
Guar gum is a better solution if you must use a thickener.
Dr. Kalpana Shekhawat M.D.
Functional & Metabolic Medicine Specialist
Founder, Freedom Age
http://www.freedomage.in/xanthum-gum-food-additive-how-bad-is-it/
After more than 12 years of practicing Conventional Allopathic medicine, I can most definitely say last 7 years of Functional Medicine Practice has been the most rewarding part of my career. My practice style has remained the same. I spend plenty of quality time with each patient and my support staff is also trained to do the same. The joy and satisfaction of knowing I have made a difference in the lives of patients and their families is incomparable. My practice attracts patients who have not had success with conventional medicine or they cannot endure or will not take prescription drugs. I integrate a scientifically proven research based Functional Medicine approach to conventional medicine, including natural alternatives to prescription drugs, vitamin and nutrient supplements, Intravenous nutrition and detox therapies as well as nutritional advice. Although my main focus is prevention, I specialize in all chronic illness.