Not so sweet…the Dangers of Erythritol

A very commonly used sweetener, Erythritol, has shown in recent research, to have a potential negative impact on cardiovascular health, specifically its link to an increased risk of heart attacks.

One significant study published in Nature Medicine in early 2023 sent ripples through the health and wellness community. Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic investigated compounds in the blood linked to future cardiac risk. Their findings were striking: higher blood levels of erythritol were associated with an elevated risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke, over a three-year follow-up period.

Scientists discovered that erythritol could increase the reactivity of platelets, tiny blood cells crucial for clotting. In both lab settings and animal models, increased erythritol levels led to enhanced blood clot formation. This is a critical finding because the formation of blood clots within arteries can obstruct blood flow to the heart, leading to a heart attack.

Another study, published more recently in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, reinforced these concerns. This study involved healthy volunteers who consumed a beverage sweetened with erythritol. The results showed a significant and rapid increase in blood erythritol levels, which remained substantially elevated for several days. Importantly, this increase was accompanied by heightened platelet reactivity and an increased potential for blood clot formation, contributing to cardiovascular risk.

What Can You Do?

Given the emerging research, it's wise to be cautious about your consumption of erythritol, especially if you have existing cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a history of heart disease.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Read Labels Carefully: Scrutinize ingredient lists for erythritol, especially in products labeled as "sugar-free," "diet," or "keto-friendly."

• Be Mindful of Processed Foods: Erythritol is often found in processed snacks, baked goods, beverages, and even some condiments. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.

• Consider Alternatives: Explore other ways to reduce your sugar intake, such as using small amounts of natural sweeteners like stevia, allulose or monk fruit, or focus on naturally sweetened fruits.

  It’s important to be aware of hidden risks in sugar-free foods, and understand any potential dangers is the first step towards protecting your heart health.