New Research Links Erythritol to Increased Heart Health Risks
Recent studies reveal that erythritol, a commonly used low-calorie sweetener, may elevate blood clotting risks, potentially explaining its association with higher rates of heart attacks and strokes in prior research.
Erythritol, a sugar alcohol found in various fruits and vegetables, is approximately 70% as sweet as sugar. It contains almost no calories, making it a favored sugar substitute, particularly in the US and Europe. For decades, it has been commonly added to foods and beverages.
Although regulatory bodies have deemed erythritol safe, emerging evidence suggests it could negatively impact heart health. Research previously indicated that individuals with higher erythritol levels in their blood face double the risk of cardiovascular events compared to those with lower concentrations. Additionally, animal studies suggest erythritol may promote blood clotting.
To investigate the effects in humans, researchers collected blood samples from ten participants before and 30 minutes after they consumed a drink containing 30 grams of erythritol. This amount reflects the average daily intake in the US. The procedure was mirrored in another group of ten participants, substituting erythritol with sugar. Notably, all participants were free from underlying health conditions.
The research team utilized compounds at varying doses to assess blood’s predisposition to clotting, allowing for a comparison before and after the consumption of both sweeteners.
The results demonstrated that erythritol consumption significantly increased blood’s tendency to form clots, with elevated levels of clotting markers observed post-consumption. In contrast, sugar showed no substantial impact on blood clotting.
These findings raise concerns about erythritol’s implication in blood clotting risk, particularly as health guidelines often encourage the use of low-calorie sweeteners as alternatives to sugar. Experts suggest that, for those vulnerable to clotting disorders, opting for sugar-sweetened beverages might be safer than erythritol-sweetened options.
Despite these findings, experts stress the need for further research to better understand the balance of risks and benefits associated with low-calorie sweeteners versus traditional sugar, as sugar also contributes to various health issues such as obesity and dental problems.
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