A University of Colorado study suggests erythritol, a sugar-free sweetener found in diet soda, candy, gum and protein bars, may pose risks to heart health and increase susceptibility to strokes
Erythritol has been found to possibly lead to higher risk of stroke(Image: Getty Images)
While many deem sugar substitutes as safe to consume, one particular sweetener might be causing more harm than we think.
Erythritol, a sugar-free sweetener found in commonly consumed products such as certain diet sodas, candy, gum, ice cream, protein bars, and more, could pose a serious risk to heart health and increase susceptibility to strokes. However, this sweetener is not used in Diet Coke.
A study from the University of Colorado suggests that erythritol damages cells in the blood-brain barrier, a protective shield that prevents harmful substances from entering the brain. This research builds on earlier observational studies that have also linked erythritol consumption to increased rates of heart attack and stroke.
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The latest study was conducted by exposing blood-brain barrier cells to levels of erythritol that could be found after drinking a soda sweetened with the compound.
Researchers discovered a chain reaction of cell damage that could potentially make the brain more susceptible to blood clots. They noted that erythritol triggered “oxidative stress,” impairing the cells’ ability to function effectively.
Furthermore, erythritol hindered the body’s natural defense against blood clots. Typically, when clots form in blood vessels, cells produce a “clot buster” called tissue plasminogen activator that dissolves the blockage over time.
However, the sweetener obstructed this protective mechanism.
Erythritol could potentially impair blood vessel function and increase the risk of stroke(Image: Getty Images)
What are the potential health risks of consuming erythritol?
Whilst this sweetener is generally deemed safe for consumption, recent research indicates that excessive and regular intake could potentially have detrimental effects on the body.
This includes triggering elevated levels of oxidative stress and diminished nitric oxide production in brain cells, which could potentially compromise blood vessel function and heighten stroke risk.
“As with any food ingredient, moderation is key,” advised Jen Messer, a nutrition consultant and registered dietitian at Jen Messer Nutrition, in an interview with USA Today.
“If you are concerned about the potential side effects of erythritol, it’s always best practice to speak with your healthcare provider.”