Many people choose sugar-free products thinking they are making a healthy choice. One sweetener, called erythritol, is often seen as a better option than sugar.
It has almost no calories, does not raise blood sugar, and is used in many diet drinks, low-calorie snacks, and protein bars.
This makes it very popular among people with diabetes or those trying to lose weight. But new research is raising serious concerns about its safety.
At the 2025 American Physiology Summit held in Baltimore, scientists shared new findings about how erythritol might affect the brain and heart. A study from the University of Colorado Boulder showed that erythritol could damage the small blood vessels in the brain and may raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
In this study, researchers looked at brain blood vessel cells taken from humans. These cells help manage blood flow in the brain and protect it from damage. They also help stop dangerous blood clots. The scientists exposed these cells to the amount of erythritol found in just one sugar-free drink.
What they found was concerning. The cells showed signs of oxidative stress. This happens when harmful molecules damage cells in the body. Too much oxidative stress can lead to inflammation and other problems. The study also found that these cells made less nitric oxide after being exposed to erythritol.
Nitric oxide is a gas that helps blood vessels relax and open up. This is important because it helps control blood pressure and ensures that the brain gets enough blood. Without enough nitric oxide, blood vessels can’t widen properly. This makes it easier for clots to form and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The lead author of the study, Auburn Berry, is a graduate student who warns that people should be careful about how much erythritol they consume. She said that while erythritol is used in many sugar-free products that seem healthier, its effects on the body—especially the blood vessels—need to be studied more.
It’s important to know that this study was done in a lab, not on people. That means the results don’t prove that erythritol causes these health problems in real life.
But the changes seen in the lab cells are similar to problems found in people with high levels of erythritol in their blood. Other studies have already shown a link between erythritol and a higher chance of heart issues.
Because of this, scientists believe that more research is urgently needed. They want to find out what happens when people use erythritol over a long period. Until then, people should be cautious.
If you’re trying to cut down on sugar, it’s still a good idea to be careful with sugar substitutes. Natural foods and a balanced diet are still the safest ways to stay healthy. While erythritol may help with weight and blood sugar, this new research shows it may come with risks that should not be ignored.
If you care about stroke, please read studies about how to eat to prevent stroke, and diets high in flavonoids could help reduce stroke risk.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and wild blueberries can benefit your heart and brain.
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