In a study from Cleveland Clinic, scientists found that erythritol, a popular artificial sweetener, is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
They examined more than 4,000 people in the U.S. and Europe and found those with higher blood erythritol levels were at elevated risk of heart attack, stroke or death.
They also examined the effects of adding erythritol to either whole blood or isolated platelets, which are cell fragments that clump together to stop bleeding and contribute to blood clots.
The team found that erythritol made platelets easier to activate and form a clot. Pre-clinical experiments confirmed ingestion of erythritol increased clot formation.
Artificial sweeteners, such as erythritol, are common replacements for table sugar in low-calorie, low-carbohydrate and “keto” products.
Sugar-free products containing erythritol are often recommended for people who have obesity, diabetes or metabolic syndrome and are looking for options to help manage their sugar or calorie intake.
Erythritol is about 70% as sweet as sugar and is produced through fermenting corn.
After ingestion, erythritol is poorly metabolized by the body. Instead, it goes into the bloodstream and leaves the body mainly through urine.
The human body creates low amounts of erythritol naturally, so any additional consumption can accumulate.
The team says measuring artificial sweeteners is difficult and labeling requirements are minimal and often do not list individual compounds.
Erythritol is “Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)” by the FDA, which means there is no requirement for long-term safety studies.
This study shows that when people consumed an artificially sweetened beverage with an amount of erythritol found in many processed foods, much higher levels in the blood are found for days. This may increase clotting risks.
It is important to have follow-up studies to confirm their findings in the general population. The study had several limitations, including that clinical studies show association and not causation.
Authors recommend talking to your doctor or a certified dietician to learn more about healthy food choices and for personalized recommendations.
If you care about heart health, please read studies that yogurt may help lower the death risks in heart disease, and coconut sugar could help reduce artery stiffness.
If you care about stroke, please read studies that diets high in flavonoids could help reduce stroke risk, and MIND diet could slow down cognitive decline after stroke.
The study was conducted by Stanley Hazen et al and published in Nature Medicine.
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